ANIONIC VINYL/DICARBOXYLIC ACID POLYMERS AND USES THEREOF

摘要

Biodegradable anionic polymers are disclosed which include recurring polymer ic subunits preferably made up of vinylic and dicarboxylic monomers such as vin yl acetate or vinyl alcohol and maleic anhydride, itaconic anhydride or citraconic anhydride, or combinations thereof. Free radical polymerization i s used in the synthesis of the polymers, which are then hydrolyzed to replace ester groups with alcohol groups. The polymers may be complexed with ions and/or mixed with fertilizers or seed to yield agriculturally useful compositions. The preferred products of the invention may be applied foliarl y, to seeds, to fertilizer, or to the earth adjacent growing plants in order to enhance nutrient uptake by the plants.