Emulsion copolymerization of alpha‐methylstyrene and styrene

Fast copolymerizations of styrene and alpha‐methylstyrene can be achieved in emulsion systems where free‐radical reactions in the bulk or solution are inefficient. The Smith–Ewart–Gardon theory of emulsion polymerization was developed for homopolymerizations but should extend to this copolymerization since the particular comonomers meet the basic assumptions of this model. Sodium lauryl sulfate surfactant provided faster initial polymerization rates, but steady‐state conversions were faster with potassium laurate, especially at higher alpha‐methylstyrene contents. This is ascribed to acceleration of potassium persulfate decomposition by the former soap. Monomer concentration in the polymerizing particles was constant during steady reaction rates. The rate of volume growth of particles during this interval was generally as predicted by theory. The number of particles and particle sizes could be predicted well if allowance was made for initiator wastage reactions. The observed average number of radicals per particle appeared to be 0.5. Analysis of the composition of monomer droplets and proton NMR analyses of copolymer compositions provided independent confirmations that the present emulsion copolymerization was consistent with the terminal copolymerization model.