Abstract
Block copolymerization of acetaldehyde was attempted by addition of acetaldehyde into the solution of living polymers at low temperature. Living polymers of styrene, α-methyl styrene, 2-methyl-5-vinylpyridine, methylmethacrylate, isoprene and butadiene were prepared with catalyst containing alkali metal such as alkali metal-aromatic complexes and n-butyl lithium.
Acetaldehyde could be polymerized by any of living polymers in toluene at -100°C and polymer, which principal ingredient was crystalline polyacetaldehyde, was obtained. It was confirmed from the measurement of infrared spectrum of the polymer that block copolymer of both components has been prepared. These block copolymer were thermally more stable than homopolymer of acetaldehyde.
