Radical-induced cationic frontal polymerization (RICFP) is a recently developed subdivision of frontal polymerization (FP) that allows for rapid cure of cationically-cureable monomers. RICFP uses the combination of a iodonium salt superacid generator and a free-radical initiator to produce a propagating front that converts monomer to polymer after input of thermal energy. One of the possible problems facing FP that can affect both academic and commercial use is pot life, or the time elapsed before a material will gel. A poor pot life negates possibly the most beneficial advantage of FP, which is the capability of one-pot formulations as opposed to two-part systems. This work examines the factors affecting pot life in RICFP formulations containing epoxies and vinyl ethers. Epoxies are one of the most common classes of monomers for adhesive and coatings applications and are frequently present as two-part systems, while vinyl ethers are highly reactive and can speed up cure time. Formulations were made and kept at elevated temperatures to compare the effects of adding inhibitors, concentration of initiators and ratio of epoxy to vinyl ether. Comparison of front velocities and viscosity over time and formulation longevity will be presented as a result of these factors. Uncovering how to optimize pot life will guide future work in creating FP formulations suitable for commercial applications.

Factors affecting pot life in formulations for radical-induced cationic frontal polymerization

ACS Spring 2022

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