Presentation on

Kinetic equation of
copolymerization

Presented by
Priti
2K19/PTE/03
What is Copolymer?
1. Copolymer is a polymer that contains two or more
different types of monomers in the polymer chain
2. It offers the desirable properties of two different
homo polymers by controlling and introducing monomers.

Types of Copolymers?

R
 Copolymerization
Let two monomers M1 and M2 are polymerized using a
free radical initiator R
Graft Copolymer
Kinetics of copolymerization
If k11 > k12 and k22 > k21
then tendency of formation of Homo and Block copolymer are there

If k11 < k12 and k22< k21

then tendency of formation of Alternating copolymer is there

If k11 = k12 and k22 = k21

then tendency of Random copolymer is there

Reactivity ratios

r1 = k11/k12

r2 =k22/k21
Rates of propagation reactions
Now assuming steady state wherein rate of consumption and rate of
generation of free radicals M1 and M2 are same

Copolymer Equation
Representation of equation in
terms of mole fractions

Where
F1=Mole fraction of monomer1 in the polymer at the some
instant of time
f1= Mole fraction of monomer1 in the feed at the some
instant of time
On eliminating [M] terms from the
equation then
Determination of reactivity ratios
Thank You