The synthesis of new regular copolymers and small molecules by an anionic condensation process

A technique based on the ‘living’ polymerisation system is described for preparing regular copolymers and small molecules. It consists of preparing a solution of monomer and a linking agent in tetrahydrofuran under an inert atmosphere; on addition of alkali metal, reaction takes place to yield polymers. A variety of dihalides, and also diepoxides and halo‐epoxides, can be used to prepare a wide range of new polymers. The method can be adapted to yield small molecules.