DETERMINATION OF CARBONYL GROUPS IN POLYMERS BY REACTION WITH 2,4-DINITROPHENYLHYDRAZINE

The 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) analysis of oxygenated functional groups in model polymers has been investigated. Whereas, aldehydic functional groups can be quantitatively analysed by previously reported methods, ketonic groups are only partially detected. Carboxylic, ester and epoxy groups do not significantly interfere in the conventional analytical methods. The reactivity of polymeric carbonyl groups towards DNPH appears to be markedly affected by steric factors, determined by the polymeric microstructure. The applicability of the DNPH method to the analysis of oxygenated functional groups in natural rubber and oxidized poly(ethylene) is discussed. © 1979.