Modeling of molecular weights in industrial autoclave reactors for high pressure polymerization of ethylene and ethylene-vinyl acetate

Abstract

We have incorporated mass balances of monomer, radical and polymer species to a previously developed mixing model for high pressure autoclave polymerization reactors. The customary quasi steady state approximation is not used, and the method of moments is used to simplify the mass balance calculations. The resulting moment model is able to calculate conversions, average molecular weights, long chain branching and melt flow indexes at any point in the reactor. It may also calculate concentration and temperature profiles along the reactor. Results for two base cases are presented in detail. Model predictions were compared with experimental data obtained at the industrial reactor; excellent agreement was obtained. The moment balance equations are presented in a modular way so that they may be easily adapted to be used with any other mixing model for this type of reactor.