A novel synthesis of sulfonated polybutadiene ionomer by a phase-transfer catalyst

The tetrabutylammonium bromide catalysed sulfonation of cis-1,4-polybutadie ne in the presence of alkaline sodium bisulfite was successfully carried ou t without crosslinking. The sulfur content was analysed by XPS and the Scho niger method. The sulfonated polybutadiene was characterised by IR,H-1 and C-13 NMR spectroscopy The probable reaction mechanism of a radical anion tr ansfer is proposed. Conclusions regarding the ionomer formation are drawn b y interpreting the glass transition (T-g) and reduced viscosity (eta(red)) data.