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Phosphazenes (2010)

Journal Article · · Organophosphorus Chemistry

A review of the literature published in 2009 shows an increase in the number of publications addressing phosphazene chemistry over 2008, which suggests a continued strong interest in these intriguing materials. Prominently is the emphasis in the bioactive and biocompatible nature of these materials; although many other applications also exist. Phosphazenes are formed from a phosphorus and nitrogen backbone with pendant group attachments at phosphorus. Typically, they are drawn with alternating single and double bonds between the alternating phosphorus and nitrogen atoms. However, unlike the familiar poly(acetylenes) or poly(thiophenes), the phosphazene backbone is not electrically conductive as there are orbital nodes at phosphorus. Thus, electron delocalization occurs between phosphorus atoms, but not through them. The result of this bonding is a highly flexible backbone that can be controlled through adoit pendant group attachment revealing numerous materials and structures. In this review, novel aspects of the chemistry, structure, and applications of phosphazenes will be discussed.

Research Organization:
Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-05ID14517
OSTI ID:
1021476
Report Number(s):
INL/JOU-10-19416
Journal Information:
Organophosphorus Chemistry, Journal Name: Organophosphorus Chemistry Journal Issue: 9 Vol. 39; ISSN 0306-0713
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English