Synthesis and characterization of polymers and copolymers of vinylruthenocene

Homopolymers of vinylruthenocene and its copolymers with methyl acrylate, styrene, and n‐vinylpyrrolidinone have been prepared by free‐radical polymerization. No evidence for the electron transfer termination mechanism postulated for polymerization of vinylferrocene was observed. Yields of soluble polymers were 40–90% with Mw (4–25) × 103 and Mw/Mn = 3.0–13.2. TGA analysis showed little weight loss up to 300°C but rapid decomposition above 300°C. Polyvinylruthenocene is a highly brittle material with Tg above 250°C. Torsional braid analysis of the copolymer samples showed Tg in the range 90–130°C which in some samples increased upon cooling and reheating. Several samples showed weak thermal transitions occurring prior to or following Tg. The rise in Tg upon cooling and reheating is indicative of possible decomposition, crosslinking, or realignment of the polymer chains.