Template Polymerization

Abstract

Template polymerizations (TP) are divided into two types. In type I we are concerned with initiation and propagation of monomer preadsorbed by or complexed to template macromolecules. In type II active oligomers created in “free” solution complex with template macromolecules and continue to propagate along the template by adding monomer “picked up” from the surrounding solution. The discussion is confined chiefly to two systems, viz. the radical TP of methyl-methacrylate (MMA) along isotactic poly-MMA and that of N-vinylpyrrolidone along syndiotactic poly(methacry1ic acid). Experimental evidence and arguments are given to support the view that these systems belong to TP's of type II. © 1981, Walter de Gruyter. All rights reserved.