Surface modification of poly(vinyl chloride) using high intensity ultrasound

The use of high intensity ultrasound to promote a number of reactions at th e surface of solid poly(vinyl chloride) is reported. Substitution reactions involving a range of compounds, including dyes, can rapidly be carried out from aqueous solution under labile conditions. Sonochemically enhanced tre atment with strong aqueous base produces dehydrochlorination even at room t emperature to produce a thin layer of conjugated material at the surface wh ich can then be grafted with a number of compounds. Some speculation as to the mechanistic features of the process as well as its potential utility is made. (C) 1999 Society of Chemical Industry.