Thermal degradation of poly[3-(1-cyclohexyl) azetidinyl methacrylate]

Thermal degradation of poly[3-(1 -cyclohexyl)azetidinyl methacrylate] has b een studied using a system consisting of a degradation tube, with a condens er for product collection of a gas phase IR cell and a rotary pump, and the rmogravimetry (TG). Product analyses were performed by IR, GC-MS, H-1 NMR a nd C-13 NMR. Thermal degradation of the polymer begins at low temperature ( about 180 degrees C) by decomposition of azetidinyl ring, producing some am ine based products. The degradation produces anhydride ring structures in t he chain above about 300 degrees C as a result of a reaction between two ne ighboring units. A mechanism of degradation showing the Formation of some p roducts is discussed. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All right s reserved.