1. A Simple Model for the Semicontinuous Heterophase Polymerization: Ethyl Methacrylate as a Case Example
- Author
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Alvarado, Abraham G., Hernandez-Montelongo, Rosaura, Rabelero, Martin, Perez-Carrillo, Lourdes A., Puig, Jorge E., and Lopez-Serrano, Francisco
- Subjects
Polymerization -- Analysis ,Time ,Engineering and manufacturing industries ,Science and technology - Abstract
A simple but comprehensive model considering homogeneous and micellar nucleation, coagulation, entry of radicals to particles and to micelles and radicals' exit from particles, is presented. The model is validated, in a starved semicontinuous heterophase polymerization of ethyl methacrylate, at three monomer addition rates. The model accurately describes the overall and instantaneous conversion, the average particle density and diameter, and the number and weight average molar masses evolutions over time. It is found that even though the average number of radicals is much smaller than 0.5, the system is not 0-1. An empirical function was used to describe the gel effect. The homogeneous nucleation was the prevailing mechanism for particle formation and large exit rates of radicals were observed., INTRODUCTION Polymeric nanoparticles have attracted increasing attention during the last decades. This is because of their unique properties and behavior, arising from their small size. Rigorously speaking, nanomaterials are structures [...]
- Published
- 2020
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