Abstract
The synthesis of oligomeric VPA structures via the CTA perfluorohexyl iodide has been investigated. NMR and MALDI-TOF MS analysis showed that the structures were produced exclusively by radical-transfer reactions. The oligomers had a molecular weight above 2 000 g mol1 and exhibited intra- and intermolecular anhydrous bonding. The investigation showed that the reaction is not a living (controlled) system, but follows conventional radical telomerization. The value for the transfer constant for C6F13I to VPA was found to be 3.4 at 70 8C and 4.3 at 80 8C. This high value may be partially explained by a low k2 p/kt ratio, which suggests a low kp. The oligomeric structures showed a relatively high resistance to thermal degradation.