First stage in synthesis of high-molecular-weight succinimide additives

Abstract

1. A study has been made of the condensation of polyolefins with maleic anhydride-the first stage in the synthesis of high-molecular-weight succinimide additives. The reaction process parameters required to give a homogeneous mixture have been determined, and optimum conditions have been selected for the synthesis of alkenylsuccinic anhydride: technical xylene solvent to provide homogeneity (30% of reaction mixture), temperature 230°C, 2/1 mole ratio of maleic anhydride to polybutene, pressure on reaction medium 4 kg/cm2, and reaction period 10–15 h. 2. It has been shown that the yield of tarry by-products fromthe reaction can be reduced by decreasing the pressure on the reaction medium, venting the carbon dioxide formed by thermal decomposition of maleic anhydride. 3. It has been shown that the smallest amount of sludge is formed in the synthesis when the reactor walls are made of stainless steel or copper. Hence, if these metals prove to be corrosion-resistant under these conditions, they can be recommended as the most suitable materials of construction for reactors used in synthesizing high-molecular-weight succinimide additives.