Grafting onto poly(vinyl alcohol). II. Graft copolymerization of methyl acrylate and vinyl acetate and their binary mixture using γ‐rays as initiator

Abstract

Abstract Methyl acrylate (MA), vinyl acetate (VAc) and their binary mixture (MA + VAc) have been graft copolymerized onto poly(vinyl alcohol) using γ‐rays as initiator by mutual radiation method in aqueous medium. The optimum conditions for affording maximum grafting have been evaluated. The percentage of grafting has been determined as a function of total dose, concentrations of poly(vinyl alcohol), MA, VAc, and their binary mixture. Rate of grafting ( R p ) and induction period ( I p ) have been determined as a function of total initial mixed monomer concentration and concentration of poly(vinyl alcohol). The graft copolymer has been characterized by thermogravimetric method. The effect of donor monomer (vinyl acetate) on percent grafting of acceptor monomer (methyl acrylate) has been explained.