New polyelectrolytes: Synthesis and preliminary characterization

Methacryloyl chloride was polymerized in a solvent mixture of benzene and cyclohexane. The degree of polymerization was determined for the methyl ester in acetone. Solid amino acids and hydroxy acids were added to the poly(methacryloyl chloride), and the insoluble polyelectrolytes that formed were separated and purified in selected solvents. In this manner derivatives of glycine, p‐aminobenzoic acid, sulfanilic acid, β‐alanine, and glycolic acid were prepared. The resulting polyelectrolytes were subjected to acid and base hydrolysis. The amide bonds showed considerable stability while the imide bonds were readily hydrolyzed. The results of elemental analysis, degree of hydrolysis, infrared analysis, and titration are used to arrive at a qualitative description of the structures.