Stereospecific polymerization of some polar vinyl monomers

Abstract

Abstract Anionic polymerization of N , N ‐disubstituted acrylamides in hydrocarbon media is stereospecific and yields a new series of crystalline tactic polymers containing polar groups. These tactic polymers melt above 300°C. and have different solubilities from the atactic isomers. There are also differences in the rates of hydrolysis and infrared spectra. The presence of ethers in the polymerization lowers both the tacticity of the product and its molecular weight. A heterogeneous surface is not necessary for stereospecificity, and, in cases where monomer and initiator are soluble in hydrocarbons, the reaction is homogeneous throughout.