Self-modeling curve resolution analysis of on-line vibrational spectra of polymerisation and transesterification

This article discusses the potential of self-modeling curve resolution analysis (SMCR) for the evolution of on-line vibrational spectral data of polymerisation and transesterification. After the general introduction of the SMCR approach, representative SMCR techniques like orthogonal projection analysis (OPA) and simple-to-use interactive self-modeling mixture analysis (SIMPLISMA) are briefly outlined. As examples the SMCR analysis of the Raman spectra of the block copolymerisation of styrene and 1,3-butadiene and that of the near-infrared (NIR) spectra of the melt-extrusion transesterification of ethylene-vinylacetate copolymer will be illustrated. In the last part of this review paper, a new powerful SMCR method that we have recently proposed is demonstrated.     

Fourier‐Transform Raman Spectroscopic On‐Line Monitoring of the Anionic Dispersion Block Copolymerization of Styrene and 1,3‐Butadiene

The anionic dispersion block copolymerization of styrene and 1,3‐butadiene has proved a suitable technique to synthesize block copolymers of tailor‐made blocklength under technically relevant conditions. For this purpose, however, an efficient analytical on‐line technique is required to control the concentrations of individual reactants and product. The present communication shortly outlines the potential of non‐invasive light‐fiber Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy in combination with a self‐modeling curve‐resolution analysis to monitor the polymerization progress and to derive concentration profiles of the two monomers and polybutadiene without prior calibration of the investigated system.