Rates of initiation and chain transfer constants in the polymerization of methyl acrylate

Abstract

Abstract By a study of bulk polymerization of methyl acrylate at 55°–75°C with benzoyl peroxide, ditertiary butyl peroxide, methyl ethyl ketone peroxide and tertiary butyl hydroperoxide as catalysts, rates of initiation, chain transfer constants for the monomer and the catalyst have been evaluated. Determination of temperature coefficients for all the rate constants have been made. Values for the catalyst efficiencies and thermal rate constants for initiation are given. Calculated and experimentally determined chain lengths are compared. Certain aspects of polymerization of methyl acrylate are compared with styrene and methyl methacrylate.