The reaction kinetics of cyclopentadiene dimerization using differential scanning calorimetry: Experiments and modelling

Abstract

• The reaction kinetics of cyclopentadiene dimerization is investigated by DSC. • Both dynamic and isothermal data are analyzed. • The Diels–Alder reaction goes essentially to completion for our temperature range. • The kinetic model was extended to incorporate the pressure effects. • Rate constants and activation energies agree with the literature. The reaction kinetics of cyclopentadiene (CPD) dimerization is studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Both dynamic and isothermal reactions are investigated. The experimental data were fit to a second order autocatalyzed reaction, taking into account the effect of elevated pressure on concentration which results from heating the easily volatilized reactant mixture in a sealed DSC pan. The rate constants and associated activation energies are obtained from the kinetic model, as well as from a model-free method. The results from the modeling with and without pressure effects are compared with one another and literature data.