FT-IR EMISSION STUDIES OF POLYMER OXIDATION

The theory and application of mid-IR emission spectroscopy to the stud y of the oxidation of single reactor particles of unstabilized polypro pylene (0.4 to 40 mu g) is described. The rate of formation of carbony l and gamma-lactone oxidation products is followed by FT-IR emission a t 150 degrees C and is interpreted within a heterogeneous model of sol id state oxidation. The results are compared with the reported chemilu minescence from single polypropylene particles and evidence is present ed for concerted oxidation when the particles are in close proximity.