The Impact of Lithium Initiators on the Preparation of Synthetic Rubbers

Abstract

Abstract The impact of the lithium initiator system has begun in the rubber synthesis field; it will surely expand into the production of plastics of controlled and desirable structure. Polymers can be designed in both fields with precise structure control for desired processing characteristics and properties. This will become more useful as the concept of domains and heterogeneity is more fully understood and utilized. The system will also lend itself to planned termination by functional groups where the products will have unusual reactivities. Solution polymerization systems should play an increasing role in the production of synthetic rubber. Of course, the emulsion system must be considered in applications where latex itself is desired and in those cases where monomers with functional groups would react with the organometallic initiator. Otherwise, we believe that solution systems will produce rubber with especially desirable properties more cheaply without as much harm to the ecology.