Some photochemical transformations of polymers

Abstract Several light-induced reactions of polymers are described. The light-sensitive groups are part of the macromolecules. Photoisomerization of polyvinylbutyral produces a polymer with vinylbutyrate-groups. At exposure to light, furan and benzofuran are added to the carbonyl-groups of polyvinylbenzophenone. Polymers with azido-groups are prepared, which eliminate nitrogen at irradiation. Light-sensitive films can be cast from polymers with o-quinonediazide-groups.