Optimization of Reaction Parameter to Prepare 2-HEMA-g-NaPCMS Using CAN as an Initiator

Sodium Salt of partially carboxymethylated starch -g-poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (Na-PCMS-g-PHEMA) copolymers containing 40-50% PHEMA were prepared with ceric ammonium nitrate initiation. All the experiments were run with Na-PCMS(DS=1.10). Graft copolymers were characterized with respect to % PHEMA, % total conversion, % grafting, %grafting efficiency and confirmation of grafting was done by Infrared Spectral Analysis. Variables investigated in the graft copolymerization reaction were nitric acid concentration, reaction time, reaction temperature, and ceric ion concentration. The results are discussed with illustrations.