Synthesis of LDPE-g-AA-M [M=Cu(1), Fe(II) and Ni(II)] copolymers via gamma ray-radiation and their use as catalysts and support for poly aniline formation

Coordination polymers have many current and potential uses as electrical materials, colorants, medical agents, among others. One of the most vigorously studied areas of application is the use of polymer supports for homogeneous catalysis of organic reactions as hydrogenation, carbonylation and hydroformylation. This kind of catalyst support show clear advantages as their chemical inert character, they can be easily functionalized and prepared with a wide range of properties. A common method to prepare organometallic polymers is the grafting of functionalized polymers onto a main polymer chain in order to fix subsequently electro attractive groups (metals in this case). The functionalized polymer may be grafted using UV, γ-radiation or high energy electrons. In this chapter, the preparation of a series of low density polyethylene (LDPE) grafted with acrylic acid is presented. The grafting reactions were initiated by different doses of γ-radiation. Subsequently, the LDPE-g-AA copolymers were coordinated with different metals such a cooper, iron and nickel. Finally, the organometallic polymers were supported with poly aniline. Samples were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, atomic absorption, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The electric conductivity of the supported poly aniline was determined by using an indirect method. (Author)