Radical copolymerization of glycidyl methacrylate and carbonyl-containing phenyl methacrylates

New copolymers containing epoxide and carbonyl groups are synthesized through the free-radical copolymerization of glycidyl methacrylate with o - and p -formylphenyl methacrylates and o - and p -acetylphenyl methacrylates. It is demonstrated that the reactivity ratios and the yield of copolymers of ortho isomers of formyl and acetylphenyl methacrylates are lower than those of the corresponding para isomers. This phenomenon is probably associated with steric hindrances created by substituents in the benzene ring. For the copolymers of interest, glass-transition and softening temperatures are determined.