| Abstract: | The interface reaction of a THF solution of a vinylidene chloride copolymer with an aqueous alkaline solution in the presence of a quaternary ammonium halide as a phase transfer catalyst affords a dehydrochlorinated polymer film with conjugated polyene structure. The degree of the reaction is dependent on the catalyst structure, and tetrabutylammonium bromide is the best among those used. KOH was found to be more effective than NaOH. The effects of the base and polymer concentration and of the nature of the solvent were also studied. The results are discussed in terms of the change of the rate of formation of ammonium hydroxide at the interface and of its diffusion in the organic phase. The doping of the obtained films with iodine vapor increases the electric conductivity up to 7 · 10?4 S · cm?1. |
