The Free Radical Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate to High Conversions

Abstract

<p>This dissertation describes an investigation into the free radical batch polymerization of methyl methacrylate to high conversion. The overall objective was to develop a kinetic model to accurately predict conversion and molecular weight distribution for the polymerization. The dissertation is divided into three self-contained parts.</p> <p>Part I describes the development and testing of the kinetic model. New gel permeation chromatograph (GPC) data interpretation methods (developed in Part I I), the free volume concept of diffusion theory, and newly obtained isothermal kinetic data, are combined with computer implemented optimization techniques, to show that classical kinetics apply to high conversions.</p> <p>Part II details the development of three new GPC interpretation techniques. The two most recent are evaluated in Part I.</p> <p>The third has been used by other workers. Other interpretation methods are also evaluated and discussed. Part I I I describes the development of a high shear concentric cylinder viscometer and its use with Newtonian standards. This is a prelude to future studies in polymer rheology and polymerization under shear conditions.</p>