PARTIAL POLYMERIZATION IN VERTICAL CONCENTRIC ROTATING CYLINDERS

Partial polymerization in vertical concentric cylinders with the inner one rotating was investigated. An empirical equation correlating conversion with polymerization time for the bulk polymerization of methyl methacrylate was obtained and the rate equation was derived. An equation incorporating overall heat transfer coefficient and reaction rate constant was derived to determine annulus design facters and a calculation chart was prepared to select operation conditions. To verify the operation of this system, polymerization reaction was conducted in a test reactor of concentric rotating cylinders. Calculated conversions were in good agreement with observed values, with a mean error of 0.28 %.