Free-radical reactions, polymer coating

Formation of a scale of polymer on the reactor walls is normally less than in corresponding bulk or solution polymerizations. Scale formation is troublesome in PVC suspension polymerizations, however, because the polymer is not soluble in its monomer, and a deposit formed on the wall will not be washed off by fresh monomer. This build-up has to be removed in order to maintain satisfactory heat transfer and prevent inclusion of gelled polymer ( fish eyes ) in the product. Cleanliness of the reactor walls is very important because the productivity of the equipment is enhanced by longer intervals between shutdowns for cleaning. To this end, some phenolic coatings have been designed that inhibit polymer buildup by terminating free-radical reactions on the walls (cf. Section 6.9). 

Polymer encapsulated sorbents have been prepared by peroxide-induced or ozone-induced free radical crosslinking of coated porous silica or diatomaceous supports at elevated temperatures [175]. By reloading and performing sequential crosslinking reactions up to 20% (w/w) of liquid phase can be immobilized over the support surface. This reaction is analogous to the widely used procedure for immobilizing stationary phases in open tubular colunms. Few practical applications have been demonstrated. 

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