Summary of papers published in this month’s research quarterly, IMEC Product Research and Development
THERMAL STABILITY OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS -7
The thermal stability of some simple types of organic structures was investigated to find base stock fluids stable at 550’ C . Four types of test apparatus for determination of thermal stability of compounds are described. A comparison is made of stability temperatures found in the liquid phase and in the vapor phase. The data obtained allowed several general conclusions on structural requirements for high thermal stability: All bonds in the molecule have high dissociation energies; no easy paths to decomposition exist; the structure is stabilized by resonance; and only substituents that enhance resonance stabilization are present. The most stable compounds were found principally in the following very stable classes of compounds : heterocyclics, aromatics, certain substituted aromatic compounds, perfluorinated ring compounds, and aromatic silanes.
I. B. Johns, E, A. McElhill, and J. 0. Smith, Monsanto Research Corp., Everett, Mass.
CATALYTIC DEPOSITION AND GRAFTING OF OLEFIN POLYMERS INTO CELLULOSIC MATERIALS
Cellulose film and fiber modifications were sought to improve cellulose characteristics and extend its uses. The in situ polymerization and grafting of olefin polymers to cellulosics using ion exchange-bonded metallic and nonmetallic catalysts or initiator components was found to provide many of the desired properties. Batch or continuous processes, with residence time of several seconds to a few minutes for each bath, could be used. Polymerization time depended on the monomer, catalyst system, and reaction conditions used. Deposition in surface layers resulted when initiator was bound in surface layers; uniform grafting and core grafting were also obtainable. Deposition could be achieved from both nonaqueous and aqueous solutions.
Douglas J . Bridgeford, Research and Development Department, Tee-Pak, Inc., Danville, Ill.
MEASURING THE FILM FORMING POTENTIALS OF LIQUIDS “r
A test was required to measure the relative fouling potentials of organic coolants used in the Organic Moderated Reactor Experiment (OMRE). A simple pyrolytic fouling apparatus was built employing an electrically heated, vertical cylinder in a capsule containing the liquid under test. The weight of film deposited under specific test conditions establishes the fouling potential of a coolant. Film weights between
