This proposal aims to prepare the first polymers based on chains of boron atoms, and to utilise their unique properties

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The connection of atoms into chains is a prerequisite for life, providing the structural components of load-bearing biological tissues and allowing the existence of large biomacromolecules. Such chains are also ubiquitous in modern society, as witnessed by theimmense importance of organic chemistry and polymers (plastics) in our lives.Overwhelmingly, this task is undertaken by carbon, which forms strong covalent bonds with itself and has an ability to form chains that is unmatched in the periodic table. Other elements also form chains in certain cases, but form less stable bonds with themselves, usually rendering them impractical. One outlier in this case is the element boron, which forms very strong bonds with itself but has thus far has never produced long one-dimensional chains.Using an armoury of five established synthetic concepts, this proposal aims to prepare polymers based on chains of boron atoms and utilise their unique structural, chemical and photophysical properties.