Macromonomers: A new class of polymeric intermediates in macromolecular synthesis - II - homo- and copolymerization

Abstract

This paper deals with the ability of macromonomers to undergo polymerization and copolymerization with vinylic or acrylic comonomers. Polymacromonomers have been made by free radical or by anionic polymerization techniques. The species formed are branched, and characterized by high segment densities, which imply that their molecular dimensions are smaller than those of linear homologues of the same molecular weight. The free radical copolymerization of various types of macromonomers with low molecular weight comonomers was investigated kinetically. The graft copolymers obtained are homogeneous in composition, as it could be anticipated from the mole ratio of macromonomer to monomer used. Special emphasis was given to amphiphilic species, made of hydrophilic grafts attached to a hydrophobic backbone. These copolymers exhibit a strong tendency to form stable emulsions.