Making the Most of Parameter Estimation: Terpolymerization Troubleshooting Tips

Bulk Free Radical Terpolymerization of Butyl Acrylate, 2-Methylene-1,3-Dioxepane and Vinyl Acetate: Terpolymer Reactivity Ratio Estimation

This investigation introduces the first estimation of ternary reactivity ratios for a butyl acrylate (BA), 2-methylene-1,3-dioxepane (MDO), and vinyl acetate (VAc) system at 50 °C, with an aim to develop biodegradable pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs). In this study, we applied the error-in-variables model (EVM) to estimate reactivity ratios. The ternary reactivity ratios were found to be r12 = 0.417, r21 = 0.071, r13 = 4.459, r31 = 0.198, r23 = 0.260, and r32 = 55.339 (BA/MDO/VAc 1/2/3), contrasting with their binary counterparts, which are significantly different, indicating the critical need for ternary system analysis to accurately model multicomponent polymerization systems. Through the application of a recast Alfrey-Goldfinger model, this investigation predicts the terpolymer's instantaneous and cumulative compositions at various conversion levels, based on the ternary reactivity ratios. These predictions not only provide crucial insights into the incorporation of MDO across different initial feed compositions but also offer estimates of the final terpolymer compositions and distributions, underscoring their potential in designing compostable or degradable polymers.

Comprehensive studies of continuous flow reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer copolymerization and its application for photoimaging materials

Thorough studies of RAFT copolymerization in a continuous flow to gain deeper insights into kinetics, reactivity, and applicability were conducted with monomers and solvents utilizable for chemically amplified resist systems.

Special Issue on “Computational Methods for Polymers”

Polymers play a key role in our daily lives [...]

Evaluation of Polymeric Materials for Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery

Polymer flooding is a promising enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique; sweeping a reservoir with a dilute polymer solution can significantly improve the overall oil recovery. In this overview, polymeric materials for enhanced oil recovery are described in general terms, with specific emphasis on desirable characteristics for the application. Application-specific properties should be considered when selecting or developing polymers for enhanced oil recovery and should be carefully evaluated. Characterization techniques should be informed by current best practices; several are described herein. Evaluation of fundamental polymer properties (including polymer composition, microstructure, and molecular weight averages); resistance to shear/thermal/chemical degradation; and salinity/hardness compatibility are discussed. Finally, evaluation techniques to establish the polymer flooding performance of candidate EOR materials are described.