Copolymers of monomers 2,4-dichlorophenyl methacrylate (2,4-DMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were synthesized with different monomer feed ratios using toluene as a solvent and 2,2'-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as an initiator at 70 degreesC. The copolymers were characterized by IR-spectroscopy, and copolymer composition was determined with UV-spectroscopy. The linearization method of Fineman-Ross was employed to obtain the monomer reactivity ratios. The molecular weights and polydispersity indexes were determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Thermogravimetric analyses of polymers were carried out in nitrogen atmosphere. The homo- and copolymers were tested for their antimicrobial properties against selected microorganisms. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.