Fundamentals of copper catalyzed atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) and mechanistically similar polymerization (ATRP) were discussed. Special emphasis was placed on structural characterization and electrochemical properties of copper complexes. Recent advances in the development of highly active copper complexes for both processes were also reviewed. It was found that electron-donating groups (methoxy and methyl in the 4 and 3,5 positions, respectively) of the pyridine rings in tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (TPMA) ligand, significantly increase the catalytic activity in copper mediated ATRA/ATRP.
Atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) catalyzed by copper complexes with N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) ligand