Photolytic decomposition of polymethacrylates. Part 3.—Poly(ethyl methacrylate)

Abstract

The kinetics and mechanism of the photochemically induced depolymerization of poly(ethyl methacrylate) are investigated. Monochromatic ultra-violet radiation, wavelength 253.7 nm has been used on samples heated in vacuum to temperatures greater than 403 K. It is concluded that the mechanism, like that postulated for poly(methyl methacrylate), is one of random scission followed by complete unzipping of the molecules.