Ultrasound-induced radical polymerization

M.W.A. Kuijpers, M.F. Kemmere, J.T.F. Keurentjes

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    Sonochemistry comprises all chemical effects that are induced by ultrasound. Most of these effects are caused by cavitations, ie, the collapse of microscopic bubbles in a liquid. The chemical effects of ultrasound include the formation of radicals and the enhancement of reaction rates at ambient temperatures. For the development of sustainable polymer processes, ultrasound is an interesting technology, as it allows for polymerizations without the use of initiator. The radicals are generated in situ by cavitation events, which enable a clean and intrinsically safe polymerization reaction. As a result of the high strain rates outside the bubble, cavitation can also induce chain scission, which provides an additional means to control the molecular weight of the produced polymer. This contribution discusses the possibilities, mechanisms, and challenges of several types of ultrasound-induced radical polymerizations.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Polymer Science and Technology
    Place of PublicationNew York
    PublisherWiley
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2004

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