Abstract: Polyfunctional anionic initiators for the preparation of elastomeric block copolymers are prepared by reacting a monofunctional anionic initiator, such as secondary butyl lithium, with a monovinyl aromatic compound, such as styrene, or a conjugated diene, such as butadiene or isoprene or mixtures thereof to form a polyuric reaction product which in turn, is reacted with a polyvinyl aromatic compound, such as divinyl benzene. The cross-linked reaction product, prior to use, is reacted with styrene or another monovinyl aromatic compound. The resulting polyfunctional anionic initiators are useful in producing elastomeric block co-polymers of the A-B-(A)n type exhibiting good elastomeric properties.

Abstract: A method for preparing a block polymer A--B--C with alkyl lithium where the improvement is in the formation of block B. The method of forming block B which is a conjugated diene is carried out without the removal of contaminants.