GRAFT COPOLYMERIZATION OF METHYL ZMETHACRYLATE ONTO WOOL FIBERS INITIATED BY NaBO₃/FE(II) REDOX SYSTEM

ABSTRACT

Grafting of methyl methacrylate onto wool fibers was carried out by using NaBO₃/Fe(II) redox system as initiator. The effect of M/P ratio, initiator and activator concentrations, and the reaction temperature on the degree of grafting has been studied. A reaction mechanism is proposed for the grafting of MMA on wool in this system. Various improved properties of the grafts were also studied and compared with those of virgin wool fibers.

Keywords:

• Wool fibers
• Methyl methacrylate
• Grafting
• Redox system
• Acid and alkali attack

Acknowledgments