Synthesis of block copolymers by photocopolymerization of vinyl monomers with diethyldithiocarbamyl end-functional polystyrene

End-functional polystyrenes with the N,N-diethyldithiocarbamyl group were prepared by the photopolymerizations of styrene using alkyl diethyldithiocarbamylacetates as photoiniferters. Under UV light the end-functional polymers could initiate vinyl monomer to polymerize and form block copolymers, such as polystyrene-block-poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene-block-poly(vinyl acetate), and polystyrene-blockpoly(n-butyl acrylate). According to end group analysis and EPR spectroscopy, AB-type block copolymers were produced. The glass transition temperatures and thermal stabilities of the block copolymers were investigated by means of thermal analysis.Polymer ScienceSCI(E)EI115793-805A3