Modeling of Polymerization Kinetics and Molecular Weight Development in the Microwave-Activated RAFT Polymerization of Styrene

A kinetic model for polymerization rate and molecular weight development in the RAFT polymerization of styrene activated by microwave irradiation has been developed. The effect of microwave irradiation was modeled assuming that the monomer can decompose into free radicals, even at temperatures where thermal initiation is negligible. The typical reactions of RAFT polymerization were also included in the model. The model was validated using experimental data from the literature for the RAFT polymerization of styrene with and without AIBN as initiator, and using CPDN as RAFT agent. Overall, good agreement between model predictions and experimental data was obtained.