Abstract
The synthesis of P(VA-co-VAc)-graft-PDMS copolymers has been achieved in microsuspension by direct reaction between an epoxy-terminated PDMS and some pendant alcohol groups in P(VA-co-VAc). In this synthesis, the copolymer is used both as dispersant and reactant. The hydrophilic/hydrophobic character of the final material can be varied at will by incorporating various contents of epoxy-functionalized PDMS through optimized reaction conditions. The final composition was determined by TGA and 1H NMR. Products prepared from monofunctional PDMS were easily redispersed in water whereas a film of crosslinked materials, arising from difunctional PDMS, showed the best waterproofing as shown by contact angle analysis.