The origins of emulsion polymerization as a process for performing free-radical polymerization reside in attempts by man to imitate the production of natural rubber latex by the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), a challenge that accelerated greatly during World War II as a consequence of shortages in supply of natural rubber. Indeed, at several points in the overview, practical guidance is given that will help new researchers in this field begin to use the various processes of particle synthesis effectively and in ways that avoid common mistakes. Mathematical equations and associated theory are given where they enhance understanding and learning and where they are particularly useful for practical application. Where considered appropriate, this important background science is complemented in the main body of the overview by more detailed explanations of phenomena that may not be familiar to a wider audience. No prior knowledge of this field is assumed and so succinct introductions are given to key topics of background science, sufficient to enable the reader to understand the important concepts of emulsion polymerization and related processes without needing to be distracted by having to read textbooks or reviews on those topics separately. While the coverage of the fundamentals is comprehensive and rigorous, the aim is for the overview to be suitable for a general scientific audience. Importance is placed on ensuring mechanistic understanding of these complex polymerizations and how the processes can be controlled and used creatively. This overview discusses the fundamentals of emulsion polymerization and related processes with the object of providing understanding to researchers considering use of these methods as tools to create polymer colloids with well-defined particle properties and morphology. Practical guidance also is given for new researchers so that they can begin using the various processes effectively and in ways that avoid common mistakes. Importance is placed on ensuring mechanistic understanding of these complex polymerizations and how the processes can be used to create polymer colloids that have particles with well-defined properties and morphology. Succinct introductions are given to key topics of background science to assist the reader. Hence, the overview has been written for a general scientific audience with no prior knowledge assumed. A comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of emulsion polymerization and related processes is presented with the object of providing theoretical and practical understanding to researchers considering use of these methods for synthesis of polymer colloids across a wide range of applications.
0 kommentar(er)
