Polysoaps. III. Polysoaps and related materials prepared by chemical modification of polystyrene

Abstract

AbstractA detailed description is given of the preparation of an anionic polysoap, poly[styrene co potassium styrylundecanoate], or poly‐K‐SSU, by the following route. Polystyrene is alkylated with methyl undercylenate in the presence of aluminum chloride; the polyester is then saponsified. Only about 50% of the phenyl groups are alkylated; thus, the structure may be written: magnified image Products of molecular weight from 60,000 to 1,760,000 have been prepared. Another anionic polysoap has been made by alkylation with methyl oleate; here, only about 35–39% of the phenyl groups are alkylated, apparently due to steric hindrance. Nonionic polysoaps have been prepared by ester interchange of the unsaponfied methyl esters with methoxy polyethylene glycol. A sulfate ester polysoaps has also been prepared. The properties of poly‐K‐SSU have been studied in some detail. The solubilizing power, and the viscosity of the aqueous solutions, are comparable to ordinary soaps; but the surface tension of the aqueous solution is very close to that of pure water. The nonionic polysoaps are also good solubilizing agents, e.g., for cholesterol; possible medical applications are considered.