Macromolecular flexibility and conformation of a new class of cyclo-linear polyorganosiloxanes☆

The behaviour of the macromolecules of a new class of cyclo-linear polyorganosiloxanes has been studied in solution and the best methods of assessing their conformational parameters have been found. An increase in the size and symmetry of the siloxane ring affects the equilibrium rigidity of the polymeric chain. With respect to conformational parameters, this class of polymers occupies an intermediate position between the flexible linear polyorganosiloxanes with an open polymeric chain and the rigid, completely cyclized polyorganosilsesquioxanes.