An analysis of caprolactam polymerization

A versatile model for e-caprolactam polymerization is presented. A deterministic, mathematical basis for obtaining the most probable distribution of molecular weights in batch polymerization is developed. Continuous polycaproamide production has been modeled and shown to give othe than most probable distribution in many cases. The effect of adding monofunctional agents has been investigated. Results of some preliminary studies toward determining the optimal reactor configuration are presented.