The polymerization of furan on surfaces

Abstract

AbstractFuran is a monomer that has but a single conformation and therefore represents a promising candidate for studies of adsorption polymerization with molecules in controlled orientation. It has been adsorbed on a well‐characterized carbon black at known surface concentrations and then polymerized. Spontaneous polymerization occurs to some extent, but irradiation with high‐energy electrons or γ‐rays or the introduction of tin tetrachloride vapors initiates a more complex polymerization.The polymerization of furan in the solid (glassy) state has been accomplished for the first time, using γ‐ray irradiation. As in the case of γ‐ray‐initiated polymerization of liquid furan or adsorbed furan, this polymerization occurs after several hours at room temperature. All the various radiation‐initiated polyfurans that have been studied are rather similar in composition. Molecular weights are low, and infrared absorption occurs in the same regions.Furan vapor polymerizes on the surface of aqueous perchloric acid. This polymer, after isolation from acid‐free water, is slightly cross‐linked and has a high concentration of primary hydroxyl groups. It has the composition expected for a cationically polymerized furan after acid hydrolysis.