Aqueous Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate Initiated by the Mn(lll)-Fructose Redox System

Abstract

Abstract The kinetics of vinyl polymerization of methyl methacrylate initiated by the redox system Mn3-fructose were investigated in aqueous sulfuric acid in the temperature range of 20-25°C, and the rates of polymerization and disappearance of Mn3+ were measured. The effect of certain water-miscible organic solvents and certain cationic and anionic surfactants on the rate of polymerization has been investigated. A mechanism involving the formation of a complex between Mn3+ and fructose whose decomposition yields the initiating free radical with the polymerization being terminated by the metal ion has been suggested.