ALDOL-GROUP-TRANSFER POLYMERIZATION OF 2-PHENYL-1,3,2-DIOXABOROLE - PREPARATION OF GRAFT AND COMB-LIKE POLYMERS

The aldol-group-transfer polymerization of 2-phenyl-1,3,2-dioxaborole is described. By initiation with aldehydes the molecular weights of th e polymers can be controlled through the mole ratio of initiator to mo nomer, ranging between 700-130000. The phenylboronic ester groups can be removed from the polymer, yielding polymers carrying a hydroxyl gro up at each carbon atom of the chain. It was also possible to prepare p olymerizable macromonomers by initiation with 4-vinylbenzaldehyde. Pol ymerization of the macromonomers by radical initiation yields comb-lik e arrangements. Similar polymers can be obtained by grafting phenyl-1, 3,2-dioxaborole onto a polymer containing benzaldehyde moieties in the side chains.