Polymerization of lactams, 53. Anionic polymerization of 2‐pyrrolidone accelerated with CO2, part 2

Abstract The anionic polymerization of 2‐pyrrolidone ( 3 ) initiated with its potassium salt ( 1 ) (2‐oxo‐1‐pyrrolidinylpotassium) and carbon dioxide was studied under optimal conditions. On the basis of a detailed experimental analysis, it is suggested to consider the investigated polymerization in the presence of gaseous CO 2 as an accelerated non‐activated polymerization. Alkali 2‐oxo‐1‐pyrrolidine carboxylate, which is formed in the system by reaction of CO 2 with 1 , probably does not take part directly in the polymerization process and excerts only a controlling role.