Determination of Functionality and Molecular Weight Distribution by Orthogonal Chromatography

Abstract
During polymerization oligomers, telechelics and macromers with different endgroups are formed as a result of various mechanisms (starting, termination, cyclization. transfer reactions). The characterization of the resulting products is possible by using orthogonal chromatography. In order to characterize 1,3,6-trioxocane polymers, synthesized in presence of benzyl alcohol, Liquid Adsorption Chromatography (LAC) under “critical conditions” is combined with Size-Exclusion Chromatography (SEC). This method includes a preparative chromatographic separation of the product which is followed by SEC and LAC under “critical conditions” and vice versa. Results advantages and problems of this type of orthogonal chromatography are discussed.