Bulk Polymerization of Acrylonitrile

Abstract

<p>This thesis reports on an experimental and theoretical study of the bulk polymerization of acrylonitrile to limiting conversions using 2,2' azobisisobutyronitrile initiator in the temperature range, 0°C to 120°C. Molecular weight averages and distributions were measured by gel permeation chromatography for polymers produced in the temperature range, 0°C -120°C. A two-phase model which holds for the bulk polymerization of vinyl chloride was used in a preliminary attempt to explain the kinetic behaviour of the system. It appears that this model does not adequately describe the bulk polymerization of acrylonitrile.</p>