Copolymerization of 4-nitrophenyl acrylate with glycidyl methacrylate: Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity ratios

4-Nitrophenyl acrylate (NPA) was prepared and characterized by LR and NMR spectroscopic techniques. Poly(4-nitrophenyl acrylate) [poly(NPA)] and copolymers of glycidyl methacrylate ( GMA) and NPA having various feed compositions in a 2-butanone solution using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator at 65 degrees C +/- 0.5 degrees C were prepared. Copolymer compositions were determined by H-1-NMR analysis. The monomer reactivity ratios were determined by Fineman-Ross, Kelen-Tudos, and extended Kelen-Tudos methods. The molecular weights of the polymers were determined by gel permeation chromatography. Thermogravimetric analysis of the polymers was performed in air and their thermal stability was studied. (C) 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.