Application of mass spectrometry to copolymers of ethylenes and propylene oxides. I. Structural analysis

Mass spectra of linear copolymers of ethylene and propylene oxides show features which are characteristic of the two monomers. Interpretation of the spectra of samples with and without modified end groups allows them to be classified as either random or blocked in structure and, in the latter case, permits determination of the order in which blocks are incorporated. Within a limited molecular weight range, the method can lead to a full determination of the distribution of molecular weights in the samples.