Isotropization living polymerization

Up until this point, we have determined that the photoinitiated polymerization of the FIO monomer in the smectic phase is slower than in the isotropic phase when the continuoiis ouq>ut of a mercury lamp is us as the initiating light source. The consequences and origin of this rate phenomenon will be further explored with respect to dark polymerization in the smectic phase after the initiating light source is suddenly terminated. The results will provide direct evidence via exotherm and ESR analysis of the long-lived polymer radical chains in the smectic phase, as well as an estimate of the termination/propagation rate constant ratio in the smectic phase. 

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