Abstract

3-Nitrophthalic anhydride as an electrophilic monomer was copolymerized in the absence of initiator under various experimental conditions with N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethyleneimine as nucleophilic monomer. The copolymers by FTIR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy were characterized and their molecular weight was determined. The copolymer composition was determined by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. N-(2-hydroxyethyl)ethyleneimine was incorporated preferentially in the copolymer when the feed ratio is richer in the nucleophilic monomer. According to the copolymer composition, the FTIR and 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR spectra information, it was possible to suggest a copolymer structure. The thermal degradation of the copolymer has been investigated using thermogravimetry in the 293-673 °K temperature range.