Poly(vinyl-t-butyl carbonate) synthesis and thermolysis to poly(vinyl alcohol)

The use of the t-BOC protecting group for the preparation of an organic soluble derivative of poly(vinyl alcohol) is reported. Poly(vinyl-t-butyl carbonate) can be obtained by free-radical polymerization of the monomer using peroxide or azo initiators at 90-120°C. The t-BOC polymer is thermolyzed cleanly to poly(vinyl alcohol) with evolution of carbon dioxide and 2-methyl-propene when heated to 210-220°C. The t-BOC polymer may be useful for imaging processes involving acid-catalyzed thermolysis. © 1987 Springer-Verlag.