Studies on copolymers of 3-methacryloyloxystyryl-4′-methylphenyl ketone and methyl methacrylate

Copolymers with various contents of 3-methacryloyloxystyryl-4′-methylphenyl ketone (MSMPK) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were prepared in methyl ethyl ketone solution using benzoyl peroxide as a free radical initiator at 70 °C. Characterization of the resulting polymers was done by UV, FT-IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopic techniques. The copolymer compositions were determined by 1H NMR analysis. The monomer reactivity ratios were calculated using linearization methods such as Finemann-Ross (r1 = 0.9439 and r2 = 0.3656), Kelen-Tüdös (r1 = 0.9726 and r2 = 0.4172), and extended Kelen-Tüdös (r1 = 0.9731 and r2 = 0.4055) methods as well as by a non-linear error-in-variables model (EVM) method using the computer program RREVM (r1 = 0.9043 and r2 = 0.3901). The molecular weights (M¯wandM¯n) and the polydispersity index of the copolymers were determined by gel permeation chromatography. The thermal stability of the copolymers solution increases with increase in concentration of MSMPK. Glass transition temperatures were determined by differential scanning calorimeter under nitrogen atmosphere. The photoreactivity of the copolymers having pendant chalcone moieties was studied in chloroform.