Mathematical Modeling of Free Radical Solution Terpolymerization Reactions in a Batch and Continuous Flow Stirred Tank Reactors

Abstract

The ORCID identification number(s) for the author(s) of this article can be found under https://doi.org/10.1002/mats.202000094.A mathematical model that describes a free radical solution terpolymerization is applied to styrene (St), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and maleic anhydride (MAh) polymerization system. This terpolymerization model allows for the use of either monofunctional or bifunctional peroxide initiators, and it is applied to batch and continuous reactions. The key model outputs are global monomer conversion, terpolymer composition, terpolymer average molecular weights, and terpolymer monomer sequence distributions. A few kinetic parameters are estimated such that global conversion is properly predicted by the model including initiator efficiency and two termination rate constants. Molecular weights are shown to be dominated by chain transfer reactions. Experimental trends of conversion, terpolymer molar masses (molecular weights), and composition are reasonably well predicted by the model.

Effect of para-substituent on copolymerization and thermal degradation kinetics of styrene copolymers composed with maleic anhydride derivative

“…The choice of solvent also affects the reaction rate due to chain transfer to the solvent [25] . By studying the polymerization kinetics parameters and constructing mathematical models or modifying existing models, it is possible to describe the polymerization process, control the sequence structure of polymers, and predict useful information such as copolymer molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, conversion, and properties [26][27][28][29] . The molecular weight and molecular structure have an impact on the thermal stability of maleic anhydride copolymers.…”