A living polymerization process is one that can produce polymers of predetermind molecular weight and a narrow molecular weight distribution containing one or more monomer sequences, the length and composition of which are controlled by stoichiometry of the polymerization reaction and degree of conversion. One such process is reversible addition-fragmentation-termination (RAFT). While compounds made by RAFT function effectively as chain transfer agents, they share one major disadvantage with the entire class of sulfur-based compounds: a characteristic disagreeable odor.

Anionic polymerization processes variously termed living, controlled, or immortal are used to synthesize polymers having a narrow molecular weight distribution and low polydispersity (1.5). These processes are so named because polymerization generally occurs by addition of monomer units to a constant number of growing polymer chains until all monomer has been consumed; if more monomer is added, polymerization resumes.

This technology relates to a photopolymerizable class of vinyl ether oligomers which can find application in the areas of coatings, adhesives, printing inks, photoresists and high impact composites. The versatile photopolymerization capability makes these oligomers an excellent strategic candidate for shrinkage control coatings in place of acrylates. These oligomers include photopolymerizable functional groups which manifests excellent uniform film forming characteristics when cured by UV or electron beam radiation.