THE PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A COMPLEX OF COPPER WITH POLY(ACRYLIC ACID) AND AN ASSESSMENT OF ITS SUITABILITY AS AN ANTISTATIC ADDITIVE FOR POLYETHYLENE

The preparation and some properties of a complex formed between poly(acrylic acid) and copper carbonate are described. Spectral studies indicate that the copper ions are in an octahedral environment. The thermal behaviour of the copper complex has been studied by thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis. The thermal decomposition study shows that the copper complex (which is hydrated) first loses water, followed by the organic ligand, to give copper oxide. The copper complex as well as poly(acrylic acid) were investigated as possible anti-static additives, but were found to be less effective than commercial additives. However, there is evidence that the copper complex may produce longer lasting anti-static properties.