Laser-initiated copolymerization of maleic anhydride with styrene,vinyltoluene, and t-butylstyrene

Laser-initiated polymerization of charge transfer monomer complexes has been investigated using an argon ion laser. The influence of solvents, monomer feed ratio, and irradiation time on the copolymer yield and composition was evaluated. The polymer yield was found to be directly proportional to the irradiation time and the molar concentration of maleic anhydride in the monomer feed. An enhanced rate of polymerization was obtained by substituting electron donating groups in the donor monomer. Polymerization, initiation, and propagation mechanisms, via charge transfer complexes, have been discussed. Comparison of laser-induced polymerization with UV-induced polymerization suggests that laser initiation is an energy-efficient process.