Copolymerization of ethylene with unsaturated alcohols and methylmethacrylate using a silylated α-diimine nickel catalyst: Molecular modeling and photodegradation studies

Inês Matos, Susete N. Fernandes, Hua Rong Liu, Amit K. Tevtia, R. P. Singh, M. Amélia N. D. A. Lemos, Francisco Lemos, Maria Mercês V. Marques

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In this article, the experimental results obtained in the copolymerization of ethylene with polar monomers using a silylated α-diimine nickel catalyst are described and compared with those obtained with a non-silylate similar one. The results show that the introduction of a siliyl group in the para-position of the imine moiety turns the catalyst less sensitive toward polar functionalities. However, the reactivity observed in copolymerization reactions was found to be reduced both the global polymerization and incorporation rates. Molecular modeling calculation allowed us to understand both the preferred insertion mode and the intermediate product structures for E/MMA copolymerization. Photodegradation studies showed that the presence of polar groups in the copolymers increases their rate of oxidation and turn them more easily degradable. The stabilization performed by Tinuvin 770 showed that for long-exposure times, it is not very effective regardless it is only mixed or grafted to the copolymer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1820-1832
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Applied Polymer Science
Volume129
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Aug 2013

Keywords

  • ageing
  • copolymers
  • degradation
  • grafting

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Copolymerization of ethylene with unsaturated alcohols and methylmethacrylate using a silylated α-diimine nickel catalyst: Molecular modeling and photodegradation studies'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this