Polymerisation calculation inititiation

[abs123456]

Homework Statement

Calculate the amount of benzoyl peroxide initiator required to generate lkg of
polyethylene if the desired mass of each polyethylene molecule is 2.326x10^-18 g.
Explain why the quantity of benzoyl peroxide is regarded as important in defining
the mechanical properties of the polymer.
(Assume the eficiency of conversion is 40% and the, mass of one benzoyl
peroxide molecule : 4.02x10^-22 g.

Homework Equations

Could someone give me some ideas about how i should solve this. thanks alot

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[nate808]

Hello, thank you for your question. To calculate the amount of benzoyl peroxide initiator required to generate 1kg of polyethylene, we can use the following equation:

Amount of initiator = (Desired mass of polyethylene / Efficiency of conversion) * (Mass of one benzoyl peroxide molecule / Mass of one polyethylene molecule)

Substituting the given values, we get:

Amount of initiator = (1kg / 0.4) * (4.02x10^-22 g / 2.326x10^-18 g) = 8.67x10^-6 kg

Therefore, 8.67x10^-6 kg of benzoyl peroxide initiator is required to generate 1kg of polyethylene.

Now, let's discuss why the quantity of benzoyl peroxide is important in defining the mechanical properties of the polymer. Benzoyl peroxide is a radical initiator, which means it helps to initiate the polymerization reaction. During polymerization, the benzoyl peroxide molecules break down into free radicals, which then react with the monomer molecules to form polymer chains. These polymer chains are what give the polymer its mechanical properties such as strength, flexibility, and durability.

The efficiency of conversion, which is the percentage of initiator molecules that actually participate in the polymerization reaction, is an important factor in determining the final properties of the polymer. If the efficiency is low, there will be fewer polymer chains formed, resulting in a weaker and less durable polymer. On the other hand, if the efficiency is high, there will be more polymer chains formed, resulting in a stronger and more durable polymer. Therefore, the quantity of benzoyl peroxide used plays a crucial role in determining the mechanical properties of the polymer.

I hope this helps you understand the problem better. Let me know if you have any other questions.