Intramolecular vs. Intermolecular Condensation Rates in the Acidic Polymerization of Octaethoxytrisiloxane
Abstract
Octaethoxytrisiloxane, (EtO)3Si-O-Si(OEt)2-O-Si(OEt)3, was synthesized and then polymerized in water/alcohol-solution in the presence of an acid catalyst. The reaction was monitored with 29Si-NMR. The rate constants of linear and cyclic condensation were estimated by curve-fitting and were compared. No evidence of depolymerization was found, indicating that condensation is irreversible in our conditions. In addition, it was found that the formation of trimeric cyclic species by ring closure is fast and competes effectively with chain extension condensation. These observations are consistent with previous suggestions, but in addition they provide a quantitative measure of selectivity that is much needed. Quantitative kinetic models for silicon alkoxide sol-gel processes need to account for cyclization at very early stages of the polymerization.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 12, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA266982
Entities
People
- A. V. Mccormick
- J. Sanchez
Organizations
- University of Minnesota