Polymerization of N‐vinylcarbazole initiated by UV‐radiation

Abstract

AbstractThe solid‐state polymerization of N‐vinylcarbazole initiated by UV‐radiation at 25, 32.5, and 45°C was studied. The rate of polymerization increased with increase in temperature. The limiting conversion at all temperatures is 56%. The molecular weight, determined by viscosity measurements, first increased, reached a maximum, then decreased. The molecular weight distribution, studied by GPC, was broad with a shoulder on the low molecular weight side. The morphology of partially polymerized single crystals was studied by electron scanning microscopy to determine the propagation mode of polymerization with respect to the monomer structure. The high activation energy of 71‐9kJ/mol and ESR spectrum suggest a radical mechanism of polymerization.