Synthesis of Aliphatic and Aromatic Poly(S-Dithiocarbonates) Using a Phase-Transfer Catalyst

Abstract

A series of aliphatic and aromatic polydithiocarbonates was prepared using a novel low temperature “one-pot” synthetic procedure employing a phase-transfer catalyst. The starting reagents were a dihalide, a diol, and an excess of carbon disulfide. The effects of the phase-transfer catalyst and reaction conditions on yield are reported. The structure and composition of the polymers were determined from infrared and ultraviolet spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The polymers were further characterized by viscosity measurement and thermogravimetric analysis.

Key Words:

• Poly(S-dithiocarbonate)
• Poly(xanthate ester)
• Sulfur-containing polymer
• Phase-transfer catalyst
• Dixanthate anion