Styrenic block copolymer elastomers

Kraton Polymers LLC, Westhollow Technology Center, Houston, TX USA 

The synthesis of styrenic block copolymers (SBCs) has been discussed in a number of books and review articles concerning block copolymers [1] and anionic polymerization [2]. A comprehensive review of the field is beyond the scope of this chapter, the objective of which is to provide an overview of the technology, with particular emphasis on processes currently used for commercial production. 

Styrenic block copolymers derive their useful properties from their ability to form distinct styrene (hard phase) and diene (rubber phase) domains, with well defined morphologies. To achieve this requires an unusual degree of control over the polymerization. The polymerization must yield discrete blocks of a uniform and controlled size, and the interface between the blocks must be sharp. This is best achieved by so-called living polymerization. For a polymerization to be classified as truly living, it is generally accepted that it must meet several criteria [3]  

The extent to which termination of growing chains occurs is insignificant on the time-scale of the polymerization and termination reactions are suffi- 

Modern Styrenic Polymers Polystyrene and Styrenic Copolymers. Edited by J. Scheirs and D, B. Priddy 2003 John Wiley Sons Ltd 

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Figure 21.5 Directional and bounded universe for utile styrenic block copolymer elastomers...

Bening RC, Korcz WH, Handhn DL Jr,. Styrenic block copolymer elastomers. In Scheirs J, Priddy DB, editors. Modem Styrene Polymers Polystyrene and Styrenic Copolymers. New York Wiley 2003. p 465. 

During the middle sixties a series of butadiene-styrene and isoprene-styrene block copolymer elastomers were developed. These materials possess typical rubber-like properties at ambient temperatures, but act like thermoplastic resins at elevated temperatures. The copolymers vary from diblock structures of styrene and butadiene ... 

Kraton. Styrene block copolymer elastomers. Shell Chemical Co. 

Styrenic block copolymer elastomer Styrenic block copolymer elastomer SBC/ TPE-S Kraton... 

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