The synthesis and polymerization studies of some higher homologues of 9‐vinylcarbazole

Abstract

Abstract 9‐Allylcarbazole, 9‐Δ 3 ‐butenylcarbazole, 9‐Δ 4 ‐pentenylcarbazole and 9‐Δ 5 −hexenylcarbazole were synthesized and their polymerization with Z IEGLER ‐N ATTA catalyst systems studied. 9‐Allylcarbazole could not be polymerized and 9‐Δ 3 ‐butenylcarbazole could only be polymerized with extreme difficulty. However, 9‐Δ 4 ‐pentylcarbazole and 9‐Δ 5 ‐hexenylcarbazole could be polymerized at conversions of about 55%. These results are interpreted in terms of steric hindrance about the vinyl group. No evidence of complexing due to the basic nitrogen atom was noted. Of the catalyst systems used only Et 2 AlClγTiCl 3 was found to be effective in the polymerization. As judged by X‐ray diffraction and insolubility the polymers were highly crystalline.