Synthesis and thermoanalysis of emulsion terpolymers ofN-phenylmaleimide, styrene, and acrylonitrile

Abstract

Terpolymers of N-phenylmaleimide (PMI), styrene, and acrylonitrile (AN) were synthesized by emulsion polymerization. The thermal properties of terpolymers at different PMI and AN feed contents were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, torsional braid analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and a Vicat softening point test. The results showed the glass-transition temperature and decomposition temperature of the terpolymers increased with increasing PMI feed content. Furthermore, the Vicat softening point of the terpolymers rose with PMI feed content. The weight- and number-average molecular weights (M w and M n ) of the terpolymers were also determined by gel permeation chromatography. The results showed that the M w and M n of the terpolymers decreased with increasing PMI feed content and increased with increasing AN feed content. The mechanical properties (tensile strength and impact strength) of the terpolymers decreased with increasing PMI feed content and increased with increasing AN feed content.