ELECTROCHEMISTRY AS THE WAY TO TRANSFORM POLYMERS

Electrochemical transformations (ET) of nonconducting polymers at a ca thode are discussed. The classification and term of electrochemical re ductive degradation are proposed to be used for such transformations. It is shown that ET may be divided into direct and indirect. The forme rs proceed as a result of electrochemical reduction and subsequent tra nsformations of electroactive macromolecules. The seconds are realized under the effect of charged nucleophilic particles obtained during el ectrochemical reduction of the solvent. In its turn the direct ET may be divided into accumulative and dissociative types. Practical applian ces of the investigations are considered.