Exploring the Complexation of Counterion in Novel Family of Polyelectrolytes with Unexpected Solubility Behaviour

Abstract

In the present paper we study the effect of complexation in linear negatively charged polyelectrolytes with different alkali ions. With combination of IR-spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and nanocalorimetry, we attempted to explain unusual solubility, crystallinity and thermal stability of these polymers. The increase of thermal stability and insolubility in water in series of semi-crystalline polysalts as K+ ≤ H+ <Na+ was explained by effectiveness of formation of chelating complex. Insoluble in water sodium salt shows the highest thermal stability of crystal phase up to . In contrast, well soluble in water amorphous lithium salt does not self-organize in chelating complex and is presented in ionic form.