Nonisothermal suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride for enhanced productivity

摘要

In the present study, a mathematical model is developed to numerically predict nonisothermal batch suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride. Free volume theory was used to consider diffusion-controlled reactions. Model predictions were validated against field data obtained in a pilot scale stirred tank reactor. Variable temperature trajectory was considered during the course of the reaction to improve productivity by reducing the polymerization time for a certain conversion. Variable temperature during the course of the polymerization was successfully implemented by considering the predefined K value. By using variable temperatures during the course of the reaction, the density of the short branches per 1,000 monomer units as a criterion for structure defect remained relatively unchanged. Maximum reduction in reaction time relative to the isothermal case with the same K value and final conversion was 44% for the best temperature trajectory. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 22:470-478, 2016. (c) 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers