Aqueous polymerization of methyl methacrylate initiated by the redox system Ce(IV)—D-glucose. I: General features and kinetics

The polymerization of methyl methacrylate initiated by the ceric ammonium nitrate-D-glucose redox system has been studied in aqueous nitric acid under nitrogen in the temperature range 20-5 to 35°C. The initial rate of polymerization was determined gravimetrically whereas the initial rate of ceric ion disappearance was determined by titration of ceric ion. The relationships between conversion and D-glucose, Ce(IV), and monomer concentrations were determined. The dependence of the rates on D-glucose, Ce(IV), and monomer concentrations was evaluated. The effect of temperature was also examined.