Graft copolymerization of acrylonitrile onto starch using potassium permanganate as initiator

Abstract

Abstract The ability of potassium permanganate to induce graft copolymerization of acrylonitrile (AN) onto starch was investigated. The graft yield depends on monomer and initiator concentrations as well as reaction time and temperature. Chemical analysis of the reaction product of starch and (AN) in presence of potassium permanganate revealed that the latter acted as initiator for polymerization of AN and as oxidizing agent for starch. Proof for grafting was provided through infrared analysis and solubility properties of the reaction product.