Abstract: A process for the polymerization of dienes which comprises anionically polymerizing dienes in the presence of an anionic polymerization initiator and a microstructure control agent is improved by adding the control agent to the polymerization mixture in two or more doses to closely control the vinyl content of the polymer produced.

Abstract: A process for the manufacturing of elastic articles such as fibers, yarns, or films, from substantially pure selectively hydrogenated block copolymers, comprising at least two blocks predominantly derived from monoalkylene aromatic monomer and at least one block predominantly derived from one or more conjugated dienes and having a number average molecular weight of at least 70,000, comprising the steps of preparing a solution or a gel of said block copolymer with an apolar organic non-aromatic solvent and processing said solution or gel through a fiber forming orifice.

Abstract: Water-soluble vinyl saccharide copolymers derived from a water-soluble vinyl saccharide monomer and a water-soluble cationic monomer. Said copolymers can be prepared via a free-radical initiated copolymerization of said monomers at a temperature in the range of 0.degree. C.-95.degree. C., and are useful in enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) and as water treating agents.

Abstract: This invention provides a process for the preparation of water-soluble vinyl saccharide polymers by polymerization of at least one water-soluble monovinyl saccharide monomer in water at a temperature in the range of from 10.degree. C. to 90.degree. C., characterized in that the polymerization is carried out in the presence of an azo-type free-radical initiator and that the process is limited to the polymerization of water-soluble monovinyl saccharide monomer in an amount not higher than 150 kilograms of monomer per cubic meter of water solution. The polymers prepared according to the invention may advantageously be used as thickeners for aqueous solutions in enhanced oil recovery and for water treatment.