Thermal polymerization of styrene

Abstract

An experimental investigation of the kinetics of bulk thermal polymerization of styrene in the temperature range of 200°–230°C is reported. Conversions and molecular weight averages were measured by gel permeation chromatography. At elevated temperatures, oxygen in the polymerization mixture appears to have negligible effect on the rate of polymerization and the molecular weights of the polymer. Experimental evidence suggests that the molecular weight development of the polymer is strongly influenced by transfer reactions. Copyright © 1978 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.