Process for preparation of monomers of the formula ##STR1## wherein R is hydrogen or methyl;X and Y are independently selected from the group consisting of NO.sub.2, halogen, --CN and --CF.sub.3 ; andm and n can range from 0 to 3.Typical monomers embraced by the above formula can be prepared by Lewis Acid catalyzed esterification of methacrylic acid with a diazo derivative of an electron acceptor such as 9-diazo-2,4,7-trinitrofluorenone. These monomers can be used with other binders or polymerized by standard, free-radical techniques to polymers capable of forming self-supporting films which are useful in electrophotographic imaging members and methods.