?BULK COPOLYMERIZATION OF ACRYLAMIDE AND MALEIC ANHYDRIDE UNDER UVRADIATION

Abstract

Bulk copolymerization of acrylamide and maleicanhydride inthe presence or absence of benzoyl peroxide was
accomplished under UV radiation at a temperature 48±I°C below the melting points of monomers. The results
indicate that the rate of formation of copolymers increases with increasing concentration of acrylamide and benzoyl
peroxide enhances the rate of copolymerization appreciably. Monomer reactivity ratios were determined experimen-
tally using the rearranged form of copolymer composition equation. Molecular weight of the product show that the
copolymer prepared under uv-irradiation carry small chain (Mn = 480 -3555). All copolymer samples are light
yellow solid substances that become light brown at 200°C.