On the structure and solution properties of radically polymerized poly(vinyl chloride). III. Discussion of some anomalies

Dilute poly(vinyl chloride) solutions exhibit a number of anomalies, such as dependence of solution properties on polymerization conditions, strong aggregation in some solvents, low solubility of the fraction with the highest molecular weight, and considerable polydispersity of fractions with higher molecular weights. On the basis of the authors' work and the literature data a survey of these anomalies is given, followed by an attempt to explain them from a unitary viewpoint. Most of the phenomena mentioned can be ascribed to the enhanced crystallization capability of syndiotactic sequences in the chain.