The radiation-induced graft copolymerisation of styrene and maleic anhydride to polyethylene

Abstract

Kinetic parameters have been obtained for the radiation-induced graft copolymerisation of styrene and maleic anhydride onto polyethylene. Evidence of sensitisation by maleic anhydride of styrene grafting has been obtained, although in the early stages of grafting we also have an indication of the formation of grafted branches which contain both maleic anhydride and styrene in regular sequences. The production of copolymers of this type provides modified polythenes having changed physical and chemical properties. In certain situations there is evidence of diffusion control in the later stages of the grafting reactions. Also, in the early stages of grafting, no true steady-state position appears with respect to the monomer concentration dependence and the intensity dependence.