Title

Molecular probe fluorescence monitoring of polymerization

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2003

Abstract

Molecular probe fluorescence is being investigated as a technique for noninvasive, real-time, monitoring of concentration, viscosity, and their gradients during polymerization. Such non-invasive, real-time monitoring of these significant polymerization parameters are particularly applicable to microgravity measurements where any disturbance of the sample generally defeats the purpose of performing the measurements in microgravity. Pyrene is currently the most promising such fluorescent probe but other probes have been and are being investigated. Excitation radiation consists of 365 nm light from a filtered Hg source. Pyrene fluorescence is found to increase during polymerization. Fluorescence has been investigated for monomer, polymer, and intermediate concentrations from room temperature to approximately 100°C. Relative intensities of pyrene emissions in lauryl acylate during 365 nm irradiation for various concentrations and temperatures are compared to concurrent measurements of viscosity. Use of a digital camera along with separation of RGB values and/or appropriate filtering is showing significant promise for real-time, non-invasive, monitoring of the twodimensional conversion field during polymerization. An interface between monomer and polymer was formed by pouring monomer on top of polymer in a fluorimeter cuvette. Two-dimensional representations of the interface have been obtained clearly delineating the monomer and polymer and the gradient between the two. © 2003 by Patrick Bunton.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

41st Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit

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