FeCl3 immobilized on crosslinked 4-vinylpyridine-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers as catalyst in the synthesis of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate

Abstract

Polymer-immobilized metal complexes were prepared by sorption of FeCl₃ and chromium compounds on latex particles of crosslinked 4-vinylpyridine-poly(ethylene oxide) copolymers. Catalytic activity and selectivity of these complexes in the esterification reaction of methacrylic acid and ethylene oxide were studied. They provide high degrees of conversion (96–100%) with minor formation of by-products. On repeated use the catalytic activity slightly decreases.