Electroinitiated polymerization of vinylic monomers in polar systems. I. Contribution of the electrolysis of methanol to free-radical polymerization

Electrolytic polymerization of acrylates and methacrylates in methanol solution containing lithium acetate as electrolyte was investigated under currents ranging from 10 to 100 mA. Polymer yield increases up to a limiting current value, beyond which it decreases. This abnormal behavior is discussed. A free-radical mechanism is suggested.