Friedel-Crafts polyketones: Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial properties

Low molecular weight polyketones were prepared by the Friedel-Crafts reacti on from p-cresol, chloroacetylchloride and dichloroalkanes, i.e. dichlorome thane and 1,2-dichloroethane. The polyketones were characterized by IR spec tra and vapour pressure osmometry. The thermal properties were studied by t hermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry. The kinetic paramete rs for the thermal decomposition reaction were evaluated by the methods of Broido and Doyle. The polyketones were found to be thermally stable up to 2 00 degrees C. They show antimicrobial properties against bacteria, fungi an d yeast.