Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Novel Acrylic Copolymers

Copolymers of monomers 4-chloro-3-methyl phenyl methacrylate (CMPM) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were synthesized with different monomer feed ratios using 2,2'-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator in toluene at 70°C. The copolymers were characterized by IR-spectroscopy and their compositions were determined by ultraviolet (UV) and 1 H NMR spectroscopy. The linearization method of Fineman-Ross and Kelen-Tudos were employed to calculate the monomer reactivity ratio. Average molecular weight and polydispersity index were obtained by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA and DTA) of copolymers were carried out under a nitrogen atmosphere. Antimicrobial effects of the homo and copolymers were also investigated for various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and yeast.