| abstract |
A process for the production of lower molecular weight polymers by free radical polymerization, characterized in that there is added to the polymerization system a compound of the general formula I n alkyl group, or a group capable of activating the vinylic carbon towards free radical addition; R2 is hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl, aryl, cycloalkenyl or cycloalkyl group or the group -COZ, where Z is R3 or OR3, where R3 is hydrogen or an optionally substituted alkyl, alkenyl or aryl group. X is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl or aryl group, or a halogen, and the two X groups may be the same or different. The invention also includes polymers or oligomers made by the process and novel compounds of the general formula I as defined above. |