α-Bromoisobutyryl bromide has been used: as atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) initiator for functionalization of hydroxyl groups present on the surface of graphene oxide; to form an N-protected halodienamide which provided four- and five-membered lactams in the presence of copper (I) and a tertiary amine; in preparation of polycaprolactone macroinitiator via reaction with oligomeric caprolactone diol and mesoporous silica nanoparticles with ATRP initiator anchored on the exterior surface.