Synthesis and characterization of poly(methylphenylsilylene)-poly(ethyleneoxide) and poly(methylphenylsilyiene)-polyisoprene multiblock copolymers

Multiblock copolymers were synthesized through condensation reactions of en d-groups of a,co-dichloro-poly(methylphenylsilylene) with hydroxyl end-grou ps of poly(ethylene glycol) or the chain-ends of 'living' polyisoprenyl dis odium. Optimum conditions have been sought through kinetic studies and by i nvestigation of model reactions. The overall molecular weight distribution of poly(methylphenylsilylene)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) is characterized i n terms of Flory's theory of condensation reactions, while the limiting ste p in the reaction is tentatively attributed to the formation of aggregates. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.