Synthesis and Homopolymerization of the Olefin- Derived Acrylic Monomer, 1-Methyl-1-Propyl-Hexyl Acrylate

Abstract

The synthesis of a new olefin-derived acrylate monomer, 1-methyl-1-propylhexyl acrylate (1-MPHA), starting from 1-pentene, is reported. 1-MPHA was found to be polymerizable to high conversion by conventional free radical means. Homopolymerization of the monomer in benzene and toluene progressed faster in toluene than in bulk. Kinetic studies show 1-MPHA to be a relatively slow reacting monomer. The homopolymer of 1-MPHA was found to be thermally stable to about 200 °C, and soft at room temperature, with a T g of -43 °C.