Enhanced ionic polymerization of styrene induced by radiation

Abstract
The radiation-induced ionic polymerization of styrene at — 78 °C has been studied, at various concentrations in diehloromethane solutions, in the presence of silica powder, and at various radiation intensities. Both yield of polymer, and average molecular weight were determined, allowing an estimate of G i for ionic polymerization to be made. The yield is greatly reduced by traces of water and this is ascribed to increased termination. On the assumption that chain transfer is small, Aerosil powder appears to cause an increase in initiation, rather than a reduction in termination. Evidence is presented for the view that the enhanced reaction occurs by the surface adsorption of styrene ions, so that the radiation intensity dependence changes from I 1.0 to I 0.5 . Energy absorbed in the solvent is also found to be capable of initiation.

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