| Abstract: | Two vinyl ethers of rosin-derived alcohols were homopolymerized with free-radical and cationic initiators. A polymer was obtained from the vinyl ether of the alcohol from Foral in good conversion by free-radical initiators but it was not a high molecular weight product. Cationic initiators were more effective; boron trifluoride etherate proved to be best. All of the homopolymers were obtained as white powders with high crystallinity. Copolymerizations of the vinyl ethers and vinyl chloride have been studied with the use of free-radical initiators. Cationic-initiated copolymers of the vinyl ethers and isobutyl vinyl ether were studied. Those containing less than 20% of the rosin vinyl ethers were rubbery, of high molecular weight, and could be crosslinked with peroxide. |
