A population balance model for disperse systems: Particle size distribution in suspension polymerization

On the basis of population balance a mathematical model is developed to des cribe the formation of polymer particle in styrene suspension polymerizatio n. The characteristics of coalescence and breakage of droplets and the gel effect are analyzed in particular. Parameters of the models are estimated b y experimental data on reaction conversion and particle size distribution. The results show that the model is suitable for predicting polymerization p rocesses.