Abstract Simple and complex unsaturated compounds are prepared by decomposition of certain xanthate esters, Xanthate esters of the form: WHERE R is an alkyl function having at least one H in a position alpha to the R - O bond, (C)n is a linear alkyl function either substituted or unsubstituted, with n 1 - 3, X has a basicity greater than the FUNCTION AND COMPRISES A C or S containing functional group having at least one double or triple bond to a hetero atom, the functional group being connected to (C)n through C or S; will decompose upon heating in water or in a protonated non-aqueous solvent, e.g. methanol, ethanol, etc., glycol, cellosolve, liquid ammonia, pyridine, lower alkyl amines, aniline, etc., to yield an unsaturated derivative of R.
A method in accordance with claim 1 in which R is alkyl or cycloalkyl, either unsubstituted or containing inert substituents.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which R is polymeric.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which R is a constituent group in cellulose, starch, amylose, or polyvinyl alcohol.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which the xanthate ester is decomposed by heating in water at an acidic pH or a protonated non-aqueous solvent at a hydrogen activity of about 3 - 6.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which X is
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which R is a constituent group in polyvinyl alcohol and the unsaturated product is polyacetylene or a copolymer of acetylene and vinyl alcohol.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
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A method in accordance with claim 1 in which R is a constituent group in a copolymer of vinyl alcohol and acetylene and the unsaturated product is polyacetylene or a copolymer of vinyl alcohol and acetylene having a higher polyacetylene content than the initial reactant.