Tetrahydrofuran has been polymerized in bulk using 5–20 wt.‐% BF 3 without the addition of cocatalysts to give a very high molecular weight, crystalline polymer which exhibits cold‐drawability, toughness, and low temperature flexibility. Within the ranges studied a maximum conversion of 74% was reached at 10% BF 3 and 10°C. and a maximum intrinsic viscosity of 3.3 at 10% BF 3 and −5°C. Equilibrium molecular weights were obtained in about two days but the highest conversions required about an eleven day polymerization period. Structure, crystallinity, mechanical properties, solubility, thermal properties, and effect of irradiation are among the aspects of the polymer discussed.
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Burrows et al. (1962) studied this question.
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