| Abstract: | ESR studies are reported for the peroxides derived from butyric, caproic, caprylic, lauric, and stearic acids. In every case, a six-component soectrum is observed, which is transformed to the spectrum of the peroxy radical in the presence of oxygen, so the spectrum is assigned to alkyl radicals formed by rupture of the peroxide bond and decarboxylation of the alkoxy radical. The rate constants and activation energies are deduced for the decay of the radicals. The activity is inversely related to chain length. Buildup curves under UV are examined, since these are dependent on chain length and light intensity. |
