The computer modeling of multicomponent, semibatch emulsion copolymerization

Abstract

Abstract A computer modeling concept was developed to deal with multicomponent emulsion copolymerization systems. Based on the model, a simulating program called NSBEC (n‐component, semibatch emulsion copolymerization) was prepared., NSBEC is capable of carrying out a variety of operations involving any number of monomers with different modes of ingredient feed. In this paper, first the basic concept of the model is explained, then several applications to the actual experimental systems (e.g., acrylonitrile‐vinylidene chloride, vinyl acetate‐butyl acrylate, and methyl methacrylate‐butyl acrylate) are discussed. Finally, the probable control of copolymer composition by means of the semibatch operation based on NSBEC is proposed. The authors expect that use of NSBEC can substantially reduce the number of experimental runs previously required to describe the system.