| Abstract: | A trifunctional polycondensation, cumulative-weight-fraction distribution function has been derived. The equation is exact and yields cumulative-weight fractions that are the same as those calculated by summation of the differential distribution function. The cumulative distribution function still contains factorials, which renders computation difficult for high values of i. The cumulative distribution function is derived in a form that allows inferences to be drawn on whether mass is conserved past an extent of reaction of p = 0.5 or whether a material loss to what is considered a gel phase occurs. The inferences that can be drawn indicate that mass is conserved up to p = 1. The discrepancy between this finding and the requirements of the Flory gel–sol theory are discussed. |
