Thermal-Degradation of Polymers and Polymer Models. IV. Thermolysis of a Polymethacrylate Model With an Unsaturated End Group

Abstract

Thermal degradation of a model for the 'unsaturated end group' of poly(methyl methacrylate ) gives products which suggest that homolytic bond cleavage, and not a retro-ene reaction, is the major pathway. The diester (CH₃)₂C(COOCH₃)CH₂C(COOCH₃)=CH₂, when heated at 250-300º, gives up to 50 mole % of methyl 2-methylpropanoate (methyl isobutyrate ).