Multiplet formation in calcium partially neutralized poly(acrylamidocaproic acid)

The multiplet formation in calcium partially neutralized poly(acrylamidocaproic acid) was studied by using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. At 20 mol % of neutralization of acid groups, the ionic groups started to aggregate to form multiplets. The hydrogen bonding of amide group was destroyed during multiplet formation due to the reduction of the motional freedom of the side chain. The extension of the short side chain started to be loosened at the neutralization of 44 mol %. In this state, the multiplets could be formed without severe side chain stretching due to the proximity of the ionic groups. It is expected that the more stable multiplet is formed with increasing the degree of neutralization. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.