Suspension Copolymerization of Styrene and Methyl Methacrylate: Experimental Kinetics and Mathematical Modeling

The kinetics of styrene-methyl methacrylate suspension copolymerization has been experimentally investigated over a wide range of conditions. The effects of temperature, and initiator and co-monomer concentrations on the rate of polymerization and on copolymer properties including chain microstructure and molecular weight averages are reported. A mathematical model which uses the free volume theory to account for diffusion controlled termination and propagation reactions is developed. The model is capable of predicting the conversion, composition and molecular weight development up to limiting conversions.

Keywords:

styrene-methyl methacrylate , copolymerization , gel-effect , free volume theory