Graft Copolymerization of Methyl Methacrylate on Wool by Periodate Ions

The ability of periodate ions to induce graft copolymerization of methyl methacrylate on wool was investigated. The amount of grafting is dependent on the concentration of monomer and initiator, and on the pH of the reaction medium. The periodate consumption during grafting and oxidation are comparable. Acetylation and dinitrophenylation of wool resulted in graft yields and periodate consumptions which are significantly lower than those of unmodified wool, indi cating perhaps that amino as well as hydroxyl groups act as sites for grafting.