Abstract
Abstract The influence of chain-transfer agent on the kinetic behavior of emulsifier-free emulsion polymerization of styrene using potassium persulfate as initiator has been investigated. the presence of a small amount of a chain-transfer agent such as carbon tetrabromide or a mercaptan in the system increased the reaction rate. This rate increase is believed to be caused by a large number of precursor particles which exist in dynamic equilibrium with the mature latex particles in the reacting system. These precursor particles, although colloidally unstable and unable to be detected with an electron microscope, are believed to be an important locus for polymerization. the size of the monomer-swollen polymer particles obtained when CBr4 or ethyl mercaptan (ESH) are used is sensitive to agitation conditions. Large monodisperse polymer particles can be obtained in the presence of CBr4 or ESH under some agitation conditions.
Published Version
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 call