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

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