Process for preparing an ultra-high molecular weight polymer via emulsion polymerization at room temperature

Abstract

A process for preparing an ultra-high molecular weight polymer via emulsion polymerization at the room/indoor temperature includes using persulfate as initiator, water as medium, anionic surfactant as emulsifier, sodium bicarbonate as pH regulator, styrene, (meth) acrylate or vinyl acetate as monomer, which is subjected to a free radical polymerization at room temperature and the normal pressure. The ultra-high molecular weight polymers may have weight average molecular weights larger than 1,000,000 g/mol. The monomer conversion may be above 85% after reacting for 1˜6 hours. The process may be carried out at room temperature and normal pressure without the addition of other assist initiators. There temperature and pressure of the reaction may not be controlled, and the molecular weight and molecular weight distribution may be adjusted and controlled in a wider range.