Linear stability analysis of non-adiabatic free-radical polymerization waves

This paper is devoted to the study of thermal polymerization waves, which a re similar to combustion waves in both the mechanism of propagation and the structure of the wave. Methods of combustion theory are used to study exti nction, which occurs due to heat loss, and the linear stability of non-adia batic thermal polymerization waves. Two models are considered, one with a s implified one-step reaction and the other with a more detailed free-radical polymerization kinetics. In both cases extinction limits and stability cha racteristics of polymerization waves are determined as a function of the sy stem parameters. It is shown, in particular, that the travelling wave solut ions of the detailed model are more stable and more resistant to heat losse s than those in the simplified model.