Emusion polymerization of MMA

EMULSION POLYMERIZATION OF METHYLMETACRYLATE

In an emulsion polymerization, the soap, or surfactant, is dissolved in water until the critical micelle concentration (CMC) is reached. The interior of the micelle provides the site necessary for polymerization. A monomer (like styrene or methyl methacrylate) and a water soluble free radical initiator are added and the whole batch is shaken or stirred. Emulsion polymerizations are always performed free radically. Anionic and cationic chain ends would be rapidly quenched by the water. The product of an emulsion polymerization is called latex.

Effect Of Concentration Of Emulsifier:-

The emulsion polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in concentration of emulsifiers below their critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) initiated by K₂S₂O₈ (KPS) was studied. It was observed that the initiator concentration has little effect on both polymerization rate and particle size. However, the polymerization rate is faster and particle size is smaller obviously when decreasing the ratio of the water/monomer or increasing the temperature of polymerization or the amount of the emulsifier. In the range of a 200–400 rpm stirring speed, the polymerization rate is almost unchanged although the particle size become larger with increase in the stirring speed. The monodisperse particle (size about 100–200 nm) can be obtained using this process.

Functions Of Methanol:-

1.      Methanol is a traditional denaturant for ethanol, thus giving the term methylated spirit.

2.      Methanol is also used as a solvent, and as an antifreeze in pipelines and windshield washer fluid.

3.      In some wastewater treatment plants, a small amount of methanol is added to wastewater to provide a food source of carbon for the denitrifying bacteria, which convert nitrates to nitrogen to reduce the denitrification of sensitive aquifers.

4.      During World War II, methanol was used as a fuel in several German military rocket designs, under name M-Stoff, and in a mixture as C-Stoff.

5.      Methanol was used as an automobile coolant antifreeze in the early 1900s.

6.      Methanol is used as a denaturing agent in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

7.      Direct-methanol fuel cells are unique in their low temperature, atmospheric pressure operation, allowing them to be miniaturized to an unprecedented degree. This, combined with the relatively easy and safe storage and handling of methanol may open the possibility of fuel cell-powered consumer electronics, such as for laptop computers and mobile phones.

8.      Methanol is also a widely used fuel in camping and boating stoves. Methanol burns well in an unpressurized burner, so alcohol stoves are often very simple, sometimes little more than a cup to hold fuel. This lack of complexity makes them a favorite of hikers who spend extended time in the wilderness.

9.      Methanol is mixed with water and injected into high performance diesel engines for an increase of power and a decrease in exhaust gas temperature. This is called water methanol injection.