Acrylic Acid Polymer Production via Mechanical Load
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing acrylic acid-based polymers with low molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution often result in high viscosity due to the inclusion of high molecular weight components, which affects their performance as dispersants and inorganic precipitation inhibitors.
Innovation Solution
A continuous production method involving mechanical loading of 0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L via a liquid feed pump to the reaction liquid discharged from a reactor, using one or multiple tank type reactors in series, effectively reduces the high molecular weight component content, achieving a polymer with excellent dispersibility and narrow molecular weight distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a large amount of chain transfer agent is used to obtain low molecular weight polymer, then the molecular weight is reduced, but the viscosity of pigment dispersion increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of mechanical energy input by applying a specific mechanical load (0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L) via a liquid feed pump to the reaction liquid. This mechanical stress physically breaks down high molecular weight components during the polymerization process, achieving low molecular weight polymer without using chain transfer agents, thereby avoiding the harmful effect of viscosity increase in pigment dispersions
2Productivity
If conventional continuous production methods are used, then productivity is improved, but high molecular weight components remain in the polymer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the conventional continuous production method by introducing a specific mechanical load parameter (0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L) applied via liquid feed pump. This additional mechanical energy parameter breaks down high molecular weight components while maintaining continuous production, thus improving molecular weight distribution without sacrificing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mechanical stress to the reaction liquid through the liquid feed pump, creating shear forces and mechanical energy input that physically disrupt polymer chains. This mechanical action effectively reduces high molecular weight components while maintaining continuous flow production
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical load of 0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L is applied via liquid feed pump, then high molecular weight components are reduced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional method of using chemical agents (chain transfer agents) with a mechanical approach (liquid feed pump applying mechanical load). This substitution eliminates the need for additional chemical processing steps and reduces overall energy consumption compared to traditional methods that require both chemical agents and extended reaction times
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method efficiently produces acrylic acid-based polymers with low molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution, enhancing their performance as dispersants, detergents, and inorganic precipitation inhibitors without requiring large amounts of chain transfer agents, thereby improving dispersion stability and reducing viscosity over time.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical load of 0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L is applied, via a liquid feed pump, to a reaction liquid discharged from an outlet of a reactor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a production method for efficiently obtaining an acrylic acid-based polymer having a narrow molecular mass distribution and a low molecular mass, without using a large amount of chain transfer agent. A method for continuously producing an acrylic acid-based polymer obtained by continuously polymerizing a monomer having acrylic acid as an essential component, characterized in that a liquid feed pump applies a mechanical load of 0.5 to 2.5 kJ/L to the liquid discharged from the outlet of a reactor. An acrylic acid-based polymer having fewer high-molecular-mass components, excellent dispersion and other properties, and a low molecular mass is thereby obtained.