Kinetics of Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate Initiated by the Redox System Mn³⁺/Crotonic Acid

Abstract

Abstract The kinetics of polymerization of methyl methacrylate initiated by the redox system Mn3+/crotonic acid was studied in aqueous sulfuric acid in the temperature range of 35-50°C, and the rates of polymerization (Rp), Mn3+ disappearance, etc. were measured. The effect of certain water miscible organic solvents, some neutral electrolytes, and solid substances on the rates of polymerization has been investigated. A mechanism involving the formation of a complex between Mn3+ and crotonic acid whose decomposition yields the initiating free radical with the polymerization being terminated by the metal ion has been suggested.