Radical Polymerization of Vinyl Monomers to Poly(vinyl)s havingnBu3Sn end Groups with Biological Activity

Abstract

<TEX>$Bu_3Sn$</TEX>-endded poly(vinyl)s with biological activity were obtained by the radical polymerization of vinyl monomers using thianthrene cation radical/<TEX>$^nBu_3H$</TEX>. Thianthrene cation and stannyl radicals promoted the homopolymerization and copolymerization of styrene and ethyl vinyl ether having number average molecular weights of 2000-3100. Tributyltin hydride functions as a chain transfer agent. Such polymereization by cationic thianthrene and stannyl radicals could provide some clues for the biological reaction in living animals. Plausible polymerization mechanisms were suggested.