What's new in the field of polycondensation? Review

Abstract

The results of research in the field of polycondensation in the U.S.S.R. are reviewed. The special aspects of equilibrium and nonequilibrium polycondensation, the equilibrium constants of the various processes, the influence on them of the structure of the starting substances and the nature of the organic medium and temperature of the reaction are considered. The problems of equilibrium in polycondensation processes with a complex course of formation of polyhexazocyclanes are discussed. The positive features of nonequilibrium polycondensation are noted. The mechanism and patterns of formation of the macromolecules in polycondensation processes (including the microstructure of the polymer chain in the processes of copolycondensation, synthesis of polymers constructed in the head-to-tail form and conformationally specific polycondensation) are considered with reference to the chemical structure of the starting materials, functionality, the reactivity of the functional groups, catalysis and the nature of the reaction medium and possible secondary processes. Data are presented on some new reactions in polymers of the polycondensation type. The relevance of the further development of this method of polymer synthesis and its prospects are noted.