Chromophore initiator as a tool for exploring ring-opening polymerization of cyclic oxalates

High-extinction 1-pyrenebutanol was used as a chromophore initiator in the ring-opening polymerization of propylene oxalate with simultaneous selective labeling of linear macromolecules. Analysis of the molecular weight distribution using a UV detector allows tracking of linear macromolecules labeled with the initiator at one end. This approach provides essential information about the polymerization process.