Methyl ethers, physical properties preparation

The polymeric products can be made to vary widely in physical properties through controlled variation in the ratios of monomers employed in thek preparation, cross-linking, and control of molecular weight. They share common quaHties of high resistance to chemical and environmental attack, excellent clarity, and attractive strength properties (see Acrylic ester polymers). In addition to acryHc acid itself, methyl, ethyl, butyl, isobutyl, and 2-ethylhexyl acrylates are manufactured on a large scale and are available in better than 98—99% purity (4). They usually contain 10—200 ppm of hydroquinone monomethyl ether as polymerization inhibitor. 

Attempts have been made over time to improve the physical properties of novolacs. The use of phenol formaldehyde resins prepared in alkaline medium in photoresist compositions is mentioned in a Kalle Co. AG patent. The use of polyvinyl ethers in combination with novolacs to impart stickiness and plasticization action to the latter was patented by Christensen. Steinhoff, Isaacson, and Roelants of the Shipley Company mention the use of vinyl ethers in a patent on roller coating. Lower alkyl polyvinyl ethers, such as methyl, ethyl, butyl, and isobutyl, are added to novolac resins to improve coating flexibility and adhesion to metal surfaces as well as to improve resistance to mildly alkaline solutions. The use of styrene, methyl styrene, and styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers in combination with novolac was mentioned in several patents of both Shipley and Kalle Co. AG. When novolac is copolymerized with maleic anhydride, a resin that is readily soluble in alkaline solutions is obtained. ... 

---