Solution properties of poly(methylphenyl)silane

The solution properties of poly(methylphenyl)silane are studied in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature. Combined measurements by gel permeation chromatography (g.p.c.) and light scattering indicate that the absolute molecular-weight values of poly(methylphenyl)silane do not differ from the g.p.c. values obtained using a classical g.p.c. calibration with polystyrene standards. Some calculations are performed on the molecular-weight values using the theory of Yamakawa and Fujii. These results allow one to conclude that the behaviour in solution of poly(methylphenyl)silane can be described using a model based on rigid-rod-like elements involving about 40 Si atoms.