Abstract: There is described a method of preparing a first polymeric compound which comprises a providing a compound of general formula (I) or a salt thereof where A and B are the same or different and at least one comprises a relatively polar atom or group and R1 and R2 independently comprise relatively non-polar atoms or groups, in a solvent of a type in which ethene itself is generally insoluble and causing the groups C═C in said compound to react with one another to form a polymeric structure. The first polymeric compound may be reacted with a second compound, for example polyvinylalcohol, collagen or the like to produce a colloid or gel which may have applications in the treatment or bums or recovery of oils.