New BlocBuilderT Technology from Arkema allows for control over free radical polymerizations

Development of novel materials exhibiting tailored end-use polymer properties

14-Dec-2005

Arkema announced the introduction of its new BlocBuilderT technology. The technology is based on novel and patented nitroxide-based compounds capable of controlling free radical polymerization. BlocBuilderT technology is commercially available on a global basis.

Over the course of its development, Arkema studied hundreds of nitroxide compounds before identifying BlocBuilderT, a product that combines a nitroxide-based reaction controller and a free radical initiator in one molecule. Results to date have shown BlocBuilderT initiator/controller to be suitable for a wide variety of monomers, including acrylates. In most cases, BlocBuilderT technology is compatible with existing polymerization reactors and processes, so that capital investment is minimized.

Many companies have investigated the use of Controlled Radical Polymerization (CRP) for years as a means to develop novel copolymers with tailored end-use properties. Obstacles to CRP commercialization to date include discoloration, odor, metallic by-product removal, slow kinetics, and incompatibility with reactor metallurgy. Laboratory tests and customer trials using Arkema's BlocBuilderT technology have proven the general ability of BlocBuilderTM technology to overcome each of the aforementioned obstacles.

Arkema's market approach for the BlocBuilderT technology is a threefold strategy involving sales of three types of products: BlocBuilderT polymerization initiator/controller for polymer producers; macro-initiators, which are intermediates in the production of block copolymers; and customized block copolymers developed for polymer formulators.

https://www.chemeurope.com/en/news/50851/new-blocbuildert-technology-from-arkema-allows-for-control-over-free-radical-polymerizations.html