Continuous ATRP synthesis of block-like copolymers via column reactors: Design and validation of a kinetic model

Bart Dervaux, Thomas Junkers, Christopher Barner-Kowollik, Filip E. Du Prez

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21 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

A model for the block-like copolymerization via continuous supported ATRP was developed, enabling the calculation of the sequence distributions of the different monomers as a function of chain length in continuous flow reactors. Polydispersity indices, copolymer compositions, and complete molecular weight distributions could be predicted. The model was extensively tested under a wide range of reaction conditions and the outcome was compared with experimental data. An almost perfect match between the simulated and experimental kinetic data (first order kinetic plots, conversions, and PDI) was observed. A reasonable fit for the composition data of the copolymers was obtained. The influence of the flow rate in the column reactor on the copolymer composition was studied.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)529-538
Number of pages10
JournalMacromolecular Reaction Engineering
Volume3
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2009
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP)
  • Block-like copolymer
  • Continuous flow reactor
  • PREDICI
  • Simulations

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