Estimation of transfer constants in the aqueous solution polymerization of acrylamide with potassium persulfate initiator

An experimental investigation on the aqueous polymerization of acrylamide with potassium persulfate initiator is reported. Molecular weight averages were measured by viscometry. Non-Newtonian effects were accounted for by extrapolation to high shear rates where the polymer solutions approximated Newtonian behavior. Values for the transfer constants to the acrylamide monomer and to the persulfate initiator were estimated at 25 and 40°C and compared to literature values.