Crosslinked network, free-radical kinetics

Generalization of Flory s Theory for Vinyl/Divinyl Copolvmerization Using the Crosslinkinq Density Distribution. Flory s theory of network formation (1,11) consists of the consideration of the most probable combination of the chains, namely, it assumes an equilibrium system. For kinetically controlled systems such as free radical polymerization, modifications to Flory s theory are necessary in order for it to apply to a real system. Using the crosslinking density distribution as a function of the birth conversion of the primary molecule, it is possible to generalize Flory s theory for free radical polymerization. 

Several applications of hyperbranched polymers as precursors for synthesis of crosslinked materials have been reported [91-97] but systematic studies of crosslinking kinetics, gelation, network formation and network properties are still missing. These studies include application of hyperbranched aliphatic polyesters as hydroxy group containing precursors in alkyd resins by which the hardness of alkyd films was improved [94], Several studies involved the modification of hyperbranched polyesters to introduce polymerizable unsaturated C=C double bonds (maleate or acrylic groups). A crosslinked network was formed by free-radical homopolymerization or copolymerization. 

Kinetics and heterogeneity of free-radical-crosslinked networks... 

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