Analysis of polymer molecules including reaction monitoring and control

To monitor, control, and optimize emulsion polymerisations, there is a need to perform a variety of different measurements. The monomer conversion is a key parameter to monitor and control the reaction. A rapid response is required for real-time reaction monitoring. This chapter considers on-line and off-line methods to measure the conversion. It describes methods to determine the molar mass and the molar-mass distribution of polymers, to determine the chemical composition and the chemical-composition distribution and to determine two-dimensional distributions. Methods for the detailed characterization of polymers are also considered, as these are needed to study the principles of polymerisation (reaction mechanisms, kinetics), as well as to establish and interpret structure-property relationships.