Abstract Based on logical analysis,contradictions in radical polymerization kinetics based on steady-state assumption are pointed out and demonstrated.The cause of these contradictions are revealed.A novel approach is developed with new equations being derived.The novel approach rectified the existing approach,and eliminated the contradictions,with supporting evidence from literature being found.Analysis shows that it is incorrect to consider initiator concentration as an independent variable that affects the rate of radical polymerization during the steady-state.It is also incorrect to consider the rate of polymerization as proportional to the half power of initiator concentration,and the termination rate constant and the initiator efficiency both as constants during the steady-state.It should be revised to state that initiator concentration is not an independent variable that affects the rate of radical polymerization during the steady-state,although it has significant influences on the apparent rate constant of radical polymerization.And it should be revised to state also that the rate of polymerization is proportional to the half power of the initial concentration of initiator,and both the termination rate constant and the initiator efficiency decrease during the steady-state.If introduced into teaching,it will support the implementation of a multi-objective teaching and learning,and have the student’s quality being improved in an all-round way,while correcting errors in textbooks and imparting correct knowledge.
GUO Lin. Contradictions in Radical Polymerization Kinetics Based on Steady-State Assumption and their Correction[J]. Chinese Journal of Chemical Education, 2025, 46(10): 116-123.
