Abstract
The thermal decomposition of various types of poly(methyl methacrylate) under vacuum was investigated by evolved gas analysis with a mass spectrometer. Though the volatilized product is mainly methyl methacrylate due to unzipping, four steps of volatilization were observed, and decompositions depend on the molecular weight and the polymerization process. The mechanisms of these four steps are elucidated by comparison of the amount of the volatilized product found at each step with the molecular weight and the polymerization process. The first step is a depolymerization initiated at the weak bond of copolymerized oxygen, and the second and third steps consist of depolymerization initiated at the chain ends, which occur due to disproportionation in propagating radical termination during polymerization. The fourth and final step is a depolymerization initiated by random scission in the main chain.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
