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InclassProblem

The document outlines a class problem focused on the synthesis of polystyrene (PS) from styrene, including tasks such as writing the repeat unit structure, describing polymerization methods, and calculating average kinetic chain length. It also includes questions on estimating average degree of polymerization and suggesting methods to increase it. The problem emphasizes the importance of understanding polymerization kinetics and the effects of various parameters on the polymerization process.

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6 views2 pages

InclassProblem

The document outlines a class problem focused on the synthesis of polystyrene (PS) from styrene, including tasks such as writing the repeat unit structure, describing polymerization methods, and calculating average kinetic chain length. It also includes questions on estimating average degree of polymerization and suggesting methods to increase it. The problem emphasizes the importance of understanding polymerization kinetics and the effects of various parameters on the polymerization process.

Uploaded by

Lê Hồ Thi
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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In Class Problem (02/19/2024)

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The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal.

1) Write down the repeat unit structure of polystyrene (PS), synthesized by polymerization of
the following monomer (styrene).

2) Briefly describe what type of polymerizations can be used to synthesize PS from the monomer
given above.

3) Draw a graph to indicate the relationship between average degree of polymerization (<DP>)
and conversion of monomer (p) in this polymerization having termination.
4) Calculate average kinetic chain length (<𝝊>) of PS synthesized, given that the relevant rate
coefficients at the reaction temperature are:
i. Initiator dissociation, ki = 8.5 x 10-6 s-1
ii. Propagation, kp = 176 L mol-1 s-1
iii. Termination, kt = 7.2 x 106 L mol -1s-1

Assume that the initiator efficiency f=0.7, and there are no chain transfers, radical recombination,
and radical transfer to solvents. The initial concentration of styrene solution in toluene is 8.6 mol/L.
The polymerization has been initiated by AIBN at a molar concentration of 0.01 mol/L.

5) Estimate average degree of polymerization (<DP>) and the number average molecular
weight when the combination is dominant in termination. Explain why you think so.

6) Suggest approaches to increase <DP> in this polymerization.

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