Cationic polymerization of 6,8-dioxabicyclo-[3.2.1]octane and 3,6,8-trioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane

6,8-Dioxabicyclooctane (DBO) and 3,6,8-trioxabicyclooctane (TBO) underwent ring-opening polymerization when treated with PF₅ in dichloromethane at ?78°C. These conditions were outstandingly effective for the polymerization of these bicyclic monomers, as shown by systematic variation of catalyst, solvent, and temperature. Best results were 68–84% yields of poly-DBO, η_inh 0.26–0.33 dl/g, and ～100% yield of poly-TBO, η_inh 0.56–0.80 dl/g. The relationship of these results to those of previous investigators of DBO discussed.