Anionic polymerization of N-ethyl-2-vinylcarbazole and N-ethyl-3-vinylcarbazole

The polymerization of N-ethyl-2-vinylcarbazole and N-ethyl-3-vinylcarbazole by an anionic mechanism has been demonstrated. Polymerization reactions were monitored by ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy and λ_max and ε values for the propagating carbanions determined. The 2-vinyl monomer exhibits all the features of a standard “living” polymer; the carbanion is stable at ambient temperatures and high molecular weight, M?_n ? 10⁶, narrow distribution polymers and block copolymers with styrene have been prepared. The carbanion from the 3-vinyl monomer is much less stable and a clean polymerization can only be conducted at temperatures below -60°C. A comparison of the anionic polymerization characteristics of the N-, 2-, and 3-vinyl carbazole monomer series is presented.