Anionic polymerization initiators and processes
AssigneeBridgestone Corporation
InventorsYuan-Yong Yan, Zengquan Qin, Xiao-Dong Pan, David M. Roggeman
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Abstract
A group of compounds defined by the general formula (I) can be used to anionically initiate polymerization of unsaturated monomers. In the formula, M is an alkali metal atom, R1 is an aryl group having at least one OR2 substituent group where each R2 is a group that is nonreactive toward M, and R is a hydrocarbyl group. The subject initiators can be used in semi-batch and continuous polymerization processes, even those which are performed at elevated temperatures.
Claims20
A compound suitable for use as an initiator for polymerization of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, said compound having the general formula
- where
- M is an alkali metal atom,
- R is a hydrocarbyl group,
- each Gp independently is a protecting group, and
- m is an integer of from 1 to 5 inclusive,
- with the proviso that, when m=1, the (OGp) substituent is para the M-containing substituent.
A process for providing a compound of suitable for use as an initiator in the polymerization of ethylenically unsaturated monomers, said process comprising reacting a hydrocarbyl alkali metal compound with a styrenic compound having the general formula
- where
- each Gp independently is a protecting group, and
- m is an integer of from 1 to 5 inclusive, with the proviso that, when m=1, the (OGp) substituent is para the vinyl group,
- thereby providing said compound.
A method of making a functionalized polymer in a reaction vessel, said method comprising initiating polymerization of one or more types of unsaturated monomers with a compound having the general formula
- where
- M is an alkali metal atom,
- R is a hydrocarbyl group,
- each Gp independently is a protecting group, and
- m is an integer of from 1 to 5 inclusive,
- with the proviso that when m=1 the (OGp) substituent is s para the M-containing substituent.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.