THE FAST ACTIVATION OF EPSILON-CAPROLACTAM POLYMERIZATION IN QUASI-ADIABATIC CONDITIONS

Two carbamoyl-type activators of epsilon-caprolactam (CL) anionic polymerization have been used in quasi-adiabatic conditions with sodium caprolactamate as initiator, at different concentrations and relative ratios. The reaction products have been characterized in terms of high-polymer content and extent of crosslinking. Correlations between the various polymerization parameters on one side, and amount of crosslinked fraction and resultant polymer properties on the other side, have been found. Potential implications on a fine control of PCL properties, exerted by the experimental conditions chosen for the anionic synthesis, are envisaged.