Theoretical Depolymerization Kinetics in Polymers Having an Initial ``Most Probable'' Molecular Weight Distribution

Abstract

The kinetic equations describing a general chain mechanism of depolymerization are solved at steady state for a polymer having an initial ``most probable'' molecular weight distribution. Chain scission initiation, end group initiation, depropagation, intermolecular chain transfer, and several types of termination are considered. In the past, solutions have been limited to special cases and approximations. Now general expressions for molecular weight change and rate of weight loss are available for polymers with an initial molecular weight distribution of wide interest. The relationships to the previously considered special cases are discussed.