Linear stability analysis of non-adiabatic free-radical polymerization waves

Abstract

This paper is devoted to the study of thermal polymerization waves, which are similar to combustion waves in both the mechanism of propagation and the structure of the wave. Methods of combustion theory are used to study extinction, which occurs due to heat loss, and the linear stability of non-adiabatic thermal polymerization waves. Two models are considered, one with a simplified one-step reaction and the other with a more detailed free-radical polymerization kinetics. In both cases extinction limits and stability characteristics of polymerization waves are determined as a function of the system parameters. It is shown, in particular, that the travelling wave solutions of the detailed model are more stable and more resistant to heat losses than those in the simplified model.