Synthesis of HIPS using an A 2 B 2 Star‐Type Graft Copolymer (PB ‐g‐ PS)

The properties of HIPS are largely related to the morphology of the disperse rubber particles developed during polymerization. Since the graft copolymer PB ‐g‐ PS formed in situ has the role of a compatibilizer between the disperse rubber particles and the continuous PS phase, through the control of the molecular characteristics of the grafting species, the rubber particles' morphology and distribution can be controlled. Several HIPS were synthesized by radical polymerization using a mixture of polybutadiene and model graft copolymers, PB ‐g‐ PS, and the final materials were characterized physicochemically and morphologically. Different ratios of PB/graft copolymer were used in order to study the effects on the molecular characteristics and morphology of the HIPS obtained. magnified image