Polymerization of acrylonitrile in the presence of vinylsulphone dyes

Information regarding the effect of vinylsulphone dyes on the kinetics of polymerization of acrylonitrile is presented in detail. Some of the physical properties of the products, polyacrylonitrile/vinylsulphone dye copolymers, are discussed, although the subject of their thorough characterization is reserved for a later publication. Considerable detail is given concerning the experimental procedures, to ensure ease of understanding of the techniques involved. ⁶⁰Co γ rays were employed as the polymerization initiator whilst the effect of γ radiation on the chromophore was noted, where relevant.