The 1 H NMR spectrum of poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) has been assigned using two-dimensional NMR correlation with the previously established assignment of the 13 C spectrum. The oxidative thermal and UV degradation of PEI has been studied using mass loss measurements, and NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Analysis of the spectra of the degradation products shows that the degradation process may readily be monitored, particularly by 13 C NMR. The major products are formamide and other amide groups which may be understood in terms of chain scission and dehydration reactions of hydroperoxides.
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