RADIATION-INDUCED POLYMERIZATION OF N,N'-METHYLENEBISACRYLAMIDE IN AQUEOUS-SOLUTION

Gamma ray induced polymerization of N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) in aqueous solution has been studied. Rates of polymerization have bee n determined as a function of dose, dose rate, and monomer concentrati on. Polymerization mechanism was found to be free radical with chain p ropagation step involving ring formation. About 90% conversion was ach ieved in 25 minutes of irradiation (dose rate 1.54 x 10(18) eV dm(-3) s(-1)) of MBA solution (36 mmol). The polymerization rates were found to vary from 1.9 x 10 4 to 5.6 x 10(-4) mol dm(-3) s(-1) when the mono mer concentrations were varied between 80-164 mmols. The value of the constant k(p)/k(t)(1/2) was calculated to be 9.85 for the dose rate of 1.54 x 10(18) eV dm(-3) s(-1). The precipitated polymer showed mono d isperse particles of diameter of about 170 nm. The polymer was found t o be highly crosslinked and insoluble in any solvent.