Novel Cationic Polymerization of β-Myrcene Using a Proton Exchanged Clay (Maghnite-H+)

This work focuses on the cationic polymerization of beta-myrcene using green, non-toxic and inexpensive natural catalyst Maghnite (Mag-H+). The Algerian montmorillonite clay named Maghnite was modified by a simple protonation using the ionic-exchange way. Polymerization experiments are performed both in bulk and solution. The effect of temperature, reaction time and catalyst amount on the polymerization reaction yield were investigated, to find the optimal reaction conditions. The structure of the obtained polymer was studied by FTIR and H-1 NMR spectroscopy. Thermal stability of the obtained polymer is studied by TGA and DSC analysis.