Transients in RAFT Miniemulsion Polymerization in CSTR Trains

Potential factors contributing to previously observed unexpected transients during miniemulsion polymerization in continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) trains are examined. Possibilities from equipment design and operation are first evaluated, and with a slightly modified CSTR train, no significant transients are observed. Causes for the transients associated with the polymerization mechanism are also considered and ruled out by careful analysis. Steady state in a reversible addition-fragmentation transfer CSTR train is achieved.