Graft copolymerization of methyl methacrylate upon gelatin initiated by benzoyl peroxide in aqueous medium

The graft copolymerization of methyl methacrylate upon gelatin was studied using benzoyl peroxide as an organic initiator in aqueous medium. The graft ing reactions were carried out within the 65-90 degrees C temperature range , and the effect of monomer and initiator concentrations on the graft yield were also investigated. The maximum graft yield was obtained at a benzoyl peroxide concentration of 0.20 x 10(-2) mol/L and the optimum temperature w as 80 degrees C. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the thermal stabili ty of gelatin increased as a result of grafting. Further, such changes in t he properties of methyl methylacrylate-grafted gelatin as density, moisture regain, and water uptake were also determined. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.