Free radical polymerization has been performed in concentrated emulsion gels containing monomer, surfactant, water, AIBN and silica (silica is optional). A number of monomers, like styrene and methyl methacrylate can be polymerized at room temperature and the monomers can be as concentrated as 80%. Room temperature polymerization occurs because of the catalytic effect of the surfactant on the decomposition of the AIBN. In fact, in the emulsion gels, the room temperature polymerization can be as fast as those in solution at 60 °C. With the addition of silica, composites can be produced that are both water and oil swellable.

Room-temperature polymerization in concentrated emulsion gels with no solvents

2019 Fall National Meeting

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