Poly(n-hexyl methacrylate) polymerization in three-component microemulsion stabilized by a cationic surfactant

The polymerization of n-hexyl methacrylate (n  -HMA) in three-component microemulsion stabilized with dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) is reported as a function of monomer and initiator concentrations and temperature. The obtained latices were bluish, transparent, and translucent. Particle sizes and molar masses were on the order of 20 nm and 3×106 g/mol3×106 g/mol, respectively. In all cases, high reaction rates and final conversions of 98% were obtained. Polymerization temperature has a strong effect on reaction rate and conversion.

Conversion curves for polymerization in microemulsion at constant n-HMA/DTAB/water weight ratio of 4/14.5/81.6 and variable V-50 content as a function of time and initiator concentration (V-50), made at 45 °C. All runs displayed high reaction rates. Symbols indicate the initiator concentration in wt%.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide