High Performance Redox Initiating Systems Based on the Interaction of Silane with Metal Complexes: A Unique Platform for the Preparation of Composites

Currently, Redox Initiating Systems (RISs) of Free Radical Polymerization (FRP) are mainly based on the interaction of aromatic amines with peroxides (e.g., dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO)) that can be both toxic and unstable. In the present work, we aim to replace these hazardous substances in new RIS tha...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Ahmad Arar, Haifaa Mokbel, Frédéric Dumur, Jacques Lalevée
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2020-03-01
Series:Molecules
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/7/1602
Description
Summary:Currently, Redox Initiating Systems (RISs) of Free Radical Polymerization (FRP) are mainly based on the interaction of aromatic amines with peroxides (e.g., dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO)) that can be both toxic and unstable. In the present work, we aim to replace these hazardous substances in new RIS that can be peroxide-free and amine-free. Our redox two components (2K) initiating system is based on diphenylsilane (DPS) as reducing agent combined with different metal complexes (Mn(acac)<sub>2</sub>, Cu(AAEMA)<sub>2</sub> or Fe(acac)<sub>3</sub>) as oxidizing agents. For the new proposed RIS, an excellent reactivity is found for the polymerization of benchmark methacrylate monomers under mild conditions (redox polymerization done under air and at room temperature); remarkably, it is also possible to finely control the gel time. Different techniques (optical pyrometry, Real-Time FTIR spectroscopy, Cyclic Voltammetry and Electron Spin Resonance (ESR)) were used to follow the polymerization processes but also to shed some light on the new redox chemical mechanisms.
ISSN:1420-3049