Correlation of cationic copolymerization parameters of cyclic ethers, formals, and esters

Abstract

Carefully determined cationic copolymerization parameters of cyclic ethers, formals, and esters are collected. Relative reactivity correlates with basicity and free energy. Further correlations of the copolymerization parameters for styrene, the effect of promoters, and the known mechanism of hydrolysis permitted a decision between the carbonium ion (including acylium ion) or the oxonium ion as the active intermediate of the propagation. Structural features which promote depropagation are identified. Equations describing these possibilities were derived and briefly discussed. Catalyst and solvent effects limited the correlation possibilities.