Photosensitive polymer: synthesis, characterization and properties of a polymer having pendant photocrosslinkable group

A monomer having a free-radical polymerizable methacryloyl group and a photocrosslinkable functional group (pendant chalcone unit) was synthesized and polymerized in MEK at 70°C using benzoyl peroxide as an initiator. The prepared polymer was characterized by UV, IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectra. The molecular weights (Mw and Mn) of the polymer were determined by gel permeation chromatography. The thermal stability of polymer was assessed by thermogravimetric analysis of the polymer in air/nitrogen atmosphere. The glass transition temperature of the polymer was determined by differential scanning calorimetry. The photocrosslinking property of the polymer was studied as a thin film, and in solution, and the results were discussed.