Sample records for styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymer

  1. Simultaneous determination of the styrene unit content and assessment of molecular weight of triblock copolymers in adhesives by a size exclusion chromatography method.

    PubMed

    Wang, Mingfang; Wang, Yuerong; Luo, Pei; Zhang, Hongyang; Zhang, Min; Hu, Ping

    2017-10-01

    The content of styrene units in nonhydrogenated and hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene and styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymers significantly influences product performance. A size exclusion chromatography method was developed to determine the average styrene content of triblock copolymers blended with tackifier in adhesives. A complete separation of the triblock copolymer from the other additives was realized with size exclusion chromatography. The peak area ratio of the UV and refraction index signals of the copolymers at the same effective elution volume was correlated to the average styrene unit content using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy with commercial copolymers as standards. The obtained calibration curves showed good linearity for both the hydrogenated and nonhydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene and styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock copolymers (r = 0.974 for styrene contents of 19.3-46.3% for nonhydrogenated ones and r = 0.970 for the styrene contents of 23-58.2% for hydrogenated ones). For copolymer blends, the developed method provided more accurate average styrene unit contents than nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy provided. These results were validated using two known copolymer blends consisting of either styrene-isoprene-styrene or hydrogenated styrene-butadiene-styrene and a hydrocarbon tackifying resin as well as an unknown adhesive with styrene-butadiene-styrene and an aromatic tackifying resin. The methodology can be readily applied to styrene-containing polymers in blends such as poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene styrene). © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. Molecular and morphological characterization of midblock-sulfonated styrenic triblock copolymers

    DOE PAGES

    Mineart, Kenneth P.; Ryan, Justin J.; Lee, Byeongdu; ...

    2017-01-11

    Midblock-sulfonated triblock copolymers afford a desirable opportunity to generate network-forming amphiphilic materials that are suitable for use in a wide range of emerging technologies as fuel-cell, water-desalination, ion-exchange, photovoltaic, or electroactive membranes. Employing a previously reported synthetic strategy wherein poly( p- tert-butylstyrene) remains unreactive, we have selectively sulfonated the styrenic midblock of a poly( p- tert-butylstyrene- b-styrene- b- p- tert- butylstyrene) (TST) triblock copolymer to different extents. Comparison of the resulting sulfonated copolymers with results from our prior study provides favorable quantitative agreement and suggests that a shortened reaction time is advantageous. An ongoing challenge regarding the morphological development ofmore » charged block copolymers is the competition between microphase separation of the incompatible blocks and physical cross-linking of ionic clusters, with the latter often hindering the former. Here, we expose the sulfonated TST copolymers to solvent-vapor annealing to promote nanostructural refinement. Furthermore, the effect of such annealing on morphological characteristics, as well as on molecular free volume, is explored.« less

  3. Characterization of a Poly(styrene-block-methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate-block-styrene) Shape Memory ABA Triblock Copolymer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fei, Pengzhan; Cavicchi, Kevin

    2011-03-01

    A new ABA triblock copolymer of poly(styrene-block- methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate-block-styrene) (PS-b- PMA-r-PODA-b-PS) was synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The triblock copolymer can generate a three-dimensional, physically crosslinked network by self-assembly, where the glassy PS domains physically crosslink the midblock chains. The side chain crystallization of the polyoctadecylacrylare (PODA) side chain generates a second reversible network enabling shape memory properties. Shape memory tests by uniaxial deformation and recovery of molded dog-bone shape samples demonstrate that shape fixities above 96% and shape recoveries above 98% were obtained for extensional strains up to 300%. An outstanding advantage of this shape memory material is that it can be very easily shaped and remolded by elevating the temperature to 140circ; C, and after remolding the initial shape memory properties are totally recovered by eliminating the defects introduced by the previous deformation cycling.

  4. Ultrasonic degradation of butadiene, styrene and their copolymers.

    PubMed

    Sathiskumar, P S; Madras, Giridhar

    2012-05-01

    Ultrasonic degradation of commercially important polymers, styrene-butadiene (SBR) rubber, acrylonitrile-butadiene (NBR) rubber, styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), polybutadiene rubber and polystyrene were investigated. The molecular weight distributions were measured using gel permeation chromatography (GPC). A model based on continuous distribution kinetics approach was used to study the time evolution of molecular weight distribution for these polymers during degradation. The effect of solvent properties and ultrasound intensity on the degradation of SBR rubber was investigated using different pure solvents and mixed solvents of varying volatility and different ultrasonic intensities. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. 21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... parts by weight of a grafted rubber consisting of (i) 8-12 parts of butadiene/styrene elastomer... limitations are determined by an infrared spectro-photo-metric method titled “Infrared Spectro-photo-metric...

  6. Sustainable Triblock Copolymers for Application as Thermoplastic Elastomers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, Wenyue; Wang, Shu; Ganewatta, Mitra; Tang, Chuanbing; Robertson, Megan

    Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), combining the processing advantages of thermoplastics with the flexibility and extensibility of elastomeric materials, have found versatile applications in industry, including electronics, clothing, adhesives, and automotive components. ABA triblock copolymers, in which A represents glassy endblocks and B the rubbery midblock, are commercially available as TPEs, such as poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) or poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene) (SIS). However, the commercial TPEs are derived from fossil fuels. The finite availability of fossil fuels and the environmental impact of the petroleum manufacturing have led to the increased interest in the development of alternative polymeric materials from sustainable sources. Rosin acids are promising replacement for the petroleum source due to their abundance in conifers, rigid molecular structures, and ease of functionalization. In this study, we explored the utilization of a rosin acid derivative, poly(dehydroabietic ethyl methacrylate) (PDAEMA), as a sustainable alternative for the glassy domain. The triblock copolymer poly(dehydroabietic ethyl methacrylate-b-n-butyl acylate-b-dehydroabietic ethyl methacrylate) (DnBD) was synthesized and characterized. DnBD exhibited tunable morphological and thermal properties. Tensile testing revealed elastomeric behavior.

  7. Molecular Design of Sulfonated Triblock Copolymer Permselective Membranes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-07-03

    factors governing sorption and permeability ofphosphoorganic agents in PEM made of sulfonated triblock copolymers of styrene and lower olefins by means...membrane morphology at environmental conditions, and the membrane sorption and transport properties with respect to water and nerve gas simulant...and chemical factors governing sorption and permeability of phosphoorganic agents in PEM made of sulfonated triblock copolymers of styrene and lower

  8. Design and Synthesis of Network-Forming Triblock Copolymers Using Tapered Block Interfaces

    PubMed Central

    Kuan, Wei-Fan; Roy, Raghunath; Rong, Lixia; Hsiao, Benjamin S.; Epps, Thomas H.

    2012-01-01

    We report a strategy for generating novel dual-tapered poly(isoprene-b-isoprene/styrene-b-styrene-b-styrene/methyl methacrylate-b-methyl methacrylate) [P(I-IS-S-SM-M)] triblock copolymers that combines anionic polymerization, atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), and Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition click chemistry. The tapered interfaces between blocks were synthesized via a semi-batch feed using programmable syringe pumps. This strategy allows us to manipulate the transition region between copolymer blocks in triblock copolymers providing control over the interfacial interactions in our nanoscale phase-separated materials independent of molecular weight and block constituents. Additionally, we show the ability to retain a desirous and complex multiply-continuous network structure (alternating gyroid) in our dual-tapered triblock material. PMID:23066522

  9. Analysis of acrylonitrile, 1,3-butadiene, and related compounds in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers for kitchen utensils and children's toys by headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

    PubMed

    Ohno, Hiroyuki; Kawamura, Yoko

    2010-01-01

    A headspace gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous determination of the residual levels of acrylonitrile (AN), 1,3-butadiene (1,3-BD), and their related compounds containing propionitrile (PN) and 4-vinyl-1-cyclohexene (4-VC) in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers for kitchen utensils and children's toys. A sample was cut into small pieces, then N,N-dimethylacetamide and an internal standard were added in a sealed headspace vial. The vial was incubated for 1 h at 90 degrees C and the headspace gas was analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The recovery rates of the analytes were 93.3-101.8% and the coefficients of variation were 0.3-6.5%. In ABS copolymers, the levels were 0.3-50.4 microg/g for AN, ND-4.5 microg/g for PN, 0.06-1.58 microg/g for 1,3-BD, and 1.1-295 microg/g for 4-VC. The highest level was found for 4-VC, which is a dimer of 1,3-BD, and the next highest was for AN, which is one of the monomers of the ABS copolymer. Furthermore, the method was also applied to acrylonitrile-styrene (AS) copolymers and polystyrenes (PS) for kitchen utensils, and nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) gloves. In AS copolymers, AN and PN were detected at 16.8-54.5 and 0.8-6.9 microg/g, respectively. On the other hand, the levels in PS and NBR samples were all low.

  10. Macroscopic Modeling of A3B15A3 Triblock Copolymers in B Solvent

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-11-01

    matrix composed of the midblock (2). Some examples of TPEs are poly[styrene-butadiene-styrene] (SBS), poly[styrene- isoprene -styrene] (SIS), poly[styrene...92. 19. Hadziioannou, G.; Skoulios, A. Molecular Weight Dependence of Lamellar Structure in Styrene Isoprene Two- and Three-block Copolymers...Microphase Seperation in Styrene- Isoprene Block Copolymers. Macromolecules 1994, 27. 42. Mckay, K. W.; Gros, W. A.; Diehl, C. F. The Influence of

  11. 21 CFR 177.1030 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene/methyl methacrylate copolymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... monomer content of the finished copolymer articles is not more than 11 parts per million as determined by a gas chromatographic method titled “Determination of Residual Acrylonitrile and Styrene Monomers... article shall yield not more than 0.0025 milligram per square inch of acrylonitrile monomer when exposed...

  12. Styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer compatibilized carbon black/polypropylene/polystyrene composites with tunable morphology, electrical conduction and rheological stabilities.

    PubMed

    Song, Yihu; Xu, Chunfeng; Zheng, Qiang

    2014-04-21

    We report a facile kinetic strategy in combination with styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer compatibilizers for preparing carbon black (CB) filled immiscible polypropylene (PP)/polystyrene (PS) (1/1) blends with finely tuned morphologies and show the important role of location and migration of CB nanoparticles in determining the electrical conductivity and rheological behaviour of the composites. A novel method of mixing a SBS/CB (5/3) masterbatch with the polymers allowed producing composites with CB aggregates dispersed partially in the unfavorable PP phase and partially in the PP side of the interface to exhibit diverse phase connectivity and electrical conductivity depending on the compounding sequences. A cocontinuous morphology with CB enrichment along the interface was formed in the composite prepared by mixing the SBS/CB masterbatch with the premixed PP/PS blend, giving rise to a highest electrical conductivity and dynamic moduli at low frequencies. On the other hand, mixing the masterbatch with one and then with another polymer yielded droplet (PS)-in-matrix (filled PP) composites. The composites underwent phase coalescence and CB redistribution accompanied by marked dynamic electrical conduction and modulus percolations as a function of time during thermal annealing at 180 °C. The composites with the initial droplet-in-matrix morphology progressed anomalously into the cocontinuous morphology, reflecting a common mechanism being fairly nonspecific for understanding the processing of filled multicomponent composites with tailored performances of general concern.

  13. Chitosan/polyanion surface modification of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer membrane for wound dressing.

    PubMed

    Yang, Jen Ming; Yang, Jhe-Hao; Huang, Huei Tsz

    2014-01-01

    The surface of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS) membrane is modified with tri-steps in this study. At first, two step modified SBS membrane (MSBS) was prepared with epoxidation and ring opening reaction with maleated ionomer. Then chitosan was used as the polycation electrolyte and sodium alginate, poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGA) and poly(aspartic acid) (PAsp) were selected as polyanion electrolytes to deposit on the surfaces of MSBS membrane by the layer-by-layer self-assembly (LbL) deposition technique to get three [chitosan/polyanion] LbL modified SBS membranes, ([CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp]). From the quantitative XPS analysis and water contact angle measurement, it is found that the order of wettability and the content of functional group percentages of COO(-) and OCN on the three [CS/polyanion] systems are [CS/Alg]>[CS/PGA]>[CS/PAsp]. Performances of water vapor transmission rates, fibronectin adsorption, antibacterial assessment and 3T3 fibroblast cell growth on [CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp] membranes were also evaluated. With the evaluation of water vapor transmission rate, these [CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp] membranes are sterile semipermeable with water evaporation at about 82±8g/day·m(2). It is found that the amount of fibronectin adsorption on the three [CS/polyanion] systems is significantly determined by the sum of the functional group of COO(-) and OCN on the surfaces of [CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp] systems. The results are inverse with the sum of the functional group of COO(-) and OCN on the three [CS/polyanion]. From the cytotoxicity test and cell adhesion and proliferation assay of 3T3 fibroblasts on the three [CS/polyanion] systems, it revealed that the cells not only remained viable but they also proliferated on the surfaces of [CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp]. The bactericidal activity was found on [CS/Alg], [CS/PGA] and [CS/PAsp]. The transport of bacterial through these [CS/polyanion] membranes was also conducted

  14. Phase Behavior of Neat Triblock Copolymers and Copolymer/Homopolymer Blends Near Network Phase Windows

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    M Tureau; L Rong; B Hsiao

    The phase behavior of poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) (ISM) copolymers near the styrene-rich network phase window was examined through the use of neat triblock copolymers and copolymer/homopolymer blends. Both end-block and middle-block blending protocols were employed using poly(isoprene) (PI), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(styrene) (PS) homopolymers. Blended specimens exhibited phase transformations to well-ordered nanostructures (at homopolymer loadings up to 26 vol % of the total blend volume). Morphological consistency between neat and blended specimens was established at various locations in the ISM phase space. Copolymer/homopolymer blending permitted the refinement of lamellar, hexagonally packed cylinder, and disordered melt phase boundaries as well asmore » the identification of double gyroid (Q{sup 230}), alternating gyroid (Q{sup 214}), and orthorhombic (O{sup 70}) network regimes. Additionally, the experimental phase diagram exhibited similar trends to those found in a theoretical ABC triblock copolymer phase diagram with symmetric interactions and statistical segments lengths generated by Tyler et al.« less

  15. Water requirements of the styrene, butadiene and synthetic-rubber industries

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Durfor, Charles N.

    1963-01-01

    About 710 million gallons of makeup water is withdrawn daily by the styrene, butadiene, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), and specialty-rubber industries; 88 percent of this water is used only for once-through cooling. About 429 million gallons of water daily (mgd) is withdrawn by the butadiene industry; 158 ragd is withdrawn by the styrene industry; 94 mgd is used to make special-purpose synthetic rubber; and 29 mgd is used in the direct manufacture of SBR. The amount of makeup water withdrawn to produce SBR ranges from 11,400 to 418,000 gallons per long ton of finished rubber. The amount of makeup water withdrawn depends upon the type of rubber, the processes used to make SBR and its intermediates (styrene and butadiene), and the availability of water at the styrene, butadiene, and SBR plants. The amount of makeup water used to make styrene ranged from 2.19 to 123 gallons per pound; to make butadiene, ranged from 5.38 to 22.0 gallons per pound; and in the direct manufacture of SBR, ranged from 0.883 to 10.2 gallons per pound of finished rubber. The amount of makeup water withdrawn for use in the manufacture of special-purpose synthetic rubber ranged from 8.45 to 104 gallons per pound. About 64 percent of the makeup water was obtained from salty water sources. These waters, which were used only in once-through cooling, contained as much as 35,000 ppm of dissolved solids. About 26 percent of the makeup water was obtained from fresh-water streams and lakes, and most of the other makeup waters were obtained from ground water. Less than 1 percent of the makeup water was obtained from reprocessed municipal sewage. Most makeup water from fresh-water streams, lakes, and wells contained less than 1,000 ppm of dissolved solids, and most makeup water used in the manufacture of SBR contained less than 500 ppm of dissolved solids. The maximum hardness of the untreated fresh makeup waters; used in the manufacture of SBR was less than 500 ppm. About 97 percent of the makeup water

  16. 21 CFR 177.1020 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. 177... SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances.../butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer identified in this section may be...

  17. 21 CFR 177.1020 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. 177... SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances.../butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer identified in this section may be...

  18. 21 CFR 177.1020 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. 177... SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances.../butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer identified in this section may be...

  19. 21 CFR 177.1020 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. 177... SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances.../butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer identified in this section may be...

  20. Magnetic hydrogels from alkyne/cobalt carbonyl-functionalized ABA triblock copolymers

    DOE PAGES

    Jiang, Bingyin; Hom, Wendy L.; Chen, Xianyin; ...

    2016-03-09

    A series of alkyne-functionalized poly(4-(phenylethynyl)styrene)- block-poly(ethylene oxide)- block-poly(4-(phenylethynyl)styrene) (PPES-b-PEO-b-PPES) ABA triblock copolymers was synthesized by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. PES n[Co 2(CO) 6] x-EO 800-PES n[Co 2(CO) 6] x ABA triblock copolymer/cobalt adducts (10–67 wt % PEO) were subsequently prepared by reaction of the alkyne-functionalized PPES block with Co 2(CO) 8 and their phase behavior was studied by TEM. Heating triblock copolymer/cobalt carbonyl adducts at 120 °C led to cross-linking of the PPES/Co domains and the formation of magnetic cobalt nanoparticles within the PPES/Co domains. Magnetic hydrogels could be prepared by swelling the PEO domains of the cross-linkedmore » materials with water. Furthermore, swelling tests, rheological studies and actuation tests demonstrated that the water capacity and modulus of the hydrogels were dependent upon the composition of the block copolymer precursors.« less

  1. Thermodynamics of coil-hyperbranched poly(styrene-b-acrylated epoxidized soybean oil) block copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Fang-Yi; Hohmann, Austin; Hernández, Nacú; Cochran, Eric

    Here we present the phase behavior of a new type of coil-hyperbranched diblock copolymer: poly(styrene- b-acrylated epoxidized soybean oil), or PS-PAESO. PS-PAESO is an example of a biorenewable thermoplastic elastomer (bio-TPE). To date, we have shown that bio-TPEs can be economical commercial substitutes for their petrochemically derived analogues--such as poly(styrene- b-butadiene- b-styrene) (SBS)--in a range of applications including pressure sensitive adhesives and bitumen modification. From a polymer physics perspective, PS-PAESO is an interesting material in that it couples a linear coil-like block with a highly branched block. Thus in contrast to the past five decades of studies on linear AB diblock copolymers, coil-hyperbranched block copolymers are relatively unknown to the community and can be expected to deviate substantially from the standard ``universal'' phase behavior in the AB systems. To explore these new materials, we have constructed a library of PS-PAESO materials spanning a range of molecular weight and composition values. The phase transition behavior and the morphology information will be interpreted by isochronal temperature scanning in dynamic shear rheology, small angle X-ray scattering and the corresponding transmission electron microscopy.

  2. Characterisation of recycled acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene from waste computer equipment in Brazil.

    PubMed

    Hirayama, Denise; Saron, Clodoaldo

    2015-06-01

    Polymeric materials constitute a considerable fraction of waste computer equipment and polymers acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene are the main thermoplastic polymeric components found in waste computer equipment. Identification, separation and characterisation of additives present in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene are fundamental procedures to mechanical recycling of these polymers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the methods for identification of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene from waste computer equipment in Brazil, as well as their potential for mechanical recycling. The imprecise utilisation of symbols for identification of the polymers and the presence of additives containing toxic elements in determinate computer devices are some of the difficulties found for recycling of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene from waste computer equipment. However, the considerable performance of mechanical properties of the recycled acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and high-impact polystyrene when compared with the virgin materials confirms the potential for mechanical recycling of these polymers. © The Author(s) 2015.

  3. Polybutadiene and Styrene-Butadiene rubbers for high-dose dosimetry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Oliveira, Lucas N.; Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares -IPEN, Sao Paulo-SP; Vieira, Silvio L.

    2015-07-01

    Polybutadiene and Styrene-Butadiene are synthetical rubbers used widely for pneumatic tires manufacturing. In this research, the dosimeter characteristics of those rubbers were studied for application in high-dose dosimetry. The rubber samples were irradiated with doses of 10 Gy up to 10 kGy, using a {sup 60}Co Gamma Cell-220 system (dose rate of 1.089 kGy/h) and their readings were taken on a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy-FTIR system (model Frontier/Perkin Elmer). The ratios of two absorbance peaks were taken for each kind of rubber spectrum, Polybutadiene (1306/1130 cm{sup -1}) and Styrene-Butadiene (1449/1306 cm{sup -1}). The ratio calculated was used as the responsemore » to the irradiation, and is not uniform across the sample. From the results, it can be concluded for both rubbers: a) the dose-response curves may be useful for high-dose dosimetry (greater than 250 Gy); b) their response for reproducibility presented standard deviations lower than 2.5%; c) the relative sensitivity was higher for Styrene-Butadiene (1.86 kGy{sup -1}) than for Polybutadiene (1.81 kGy{sup -1}), d) for doses of 10 kGy to 200 kGy, there was no variation in the dosimetric response. Both types of rubber samples showed usefulness as high-dose dosimeters. (authors)« less

  4. 21 CFR 177.1830 - Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1830 Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers. Styrene-methyl... intended for use in contact with food, subject to the provisions of this section. (a) For the purpose of...

  5. Styrene-butadiene latex modifiers for bridge deck overlay concrete.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1978-04-01

    Styrene-butadiene (S/B) latex modified concrete overlays are being used to protect : new bridge decks from rapid deicer-borne chloride intrusion and also in bridge : deck rehabilitation efforts. The purposes of this research were to evaluate several ...

  6. Synthesis and photooxidation of styrene copolymer bearing camphorquinone pendant groups

    PubMed Central

    Moszner, Norbert; Lukáč, Ivan

    2012-01-01

    Summary (±)-10-Methacryloyloxycamphorquinone (MCQ) was synthesized from (±)-10-camphorsulfonic acid either by a known seven-step synthetic route or by a novel, shorter five-step synthetic route. MCQ was copolymerized with styrene (S) and the photochemical behavior of the copolymer MCQ/S was compared with that of a formerly studied copolymer of styrene with monomers containing the benzil (BZ) moiety (another 1,2-dicarbonyl). Irradiation (λ > 380 nm) of aerated films of styrene copolymers with monomers containing the BZ moiety leads to the insertion of two oxygen atoms between the carbonyl groups of BZ and to the formation of benzoyl peroxide (BP) as pendant groups on the polymer backbone. An equivalent irradiation of MCQ/S led mainly to the insertion of only one oxygen atom between the carbonyl groups of camphorquinone (CQ) and to the formation of camphoric anhydride (11) covalently bound to the polymer backbone. While the decomposition of pendant BP groups formed in irradiated films of styrene copolymers with pendant BZ groups leads to crosslinking, only small molecular-weight changes in irradiated MCQ/S were observed. PMID:22509202

  7. Morphological and physical characterization of poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) block copolymers and ionomers thereof

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baugh, Daniel Webster, III

    Poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) block copolymers made by living cationic polymerization using a difunctional initiator and the sequential monomer addition technique were analyzed using curve-resolution software in conjunction with high-resolution GPC. Fractional precipitation and selective solvent extraction were applied to a representative sample in order to confirm the identity of contaminating species. The latter were found to be low molecular weight polystyrene homopolymer, diblock copolymer, and higher molecular weight segmented block copolymers formed by intermolecular electrophilic aromatic substitution linking reactions occurring late in the polymerization of the styrene outer blocks. Solvent-cast films of poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) (PS-PIB-PS) block copolymers and block ionomers were analyzed using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Four block copolymer samples with center block molecular weights of 52,000 g/mol and PS volume fractions (o sbPS) ranging from 0.17 to 0.31 were studied. All samples exhibited hexagonally packed cylinders of PS within the PIB matrix. Cylinder spacing was in the range 32 to 36 nm for most samples, while cylinder diameters varied from 14 to 21 nm. Porod analysis of the scattering data indicated the presence of isolated phase mixing and sharp phase boundaries. PS-PIB-PS block copolymers and ionomers therefrom were analyzed using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and tensile testing. The study encompassed five block copolymer samples with similar PIB center blocks with molecular weights of approx52,000 g/mol and PS weight fractions ranging from 0.127 to 0.337. Ionomers were prepared from two of these materials by lightly sulfonating the PS outer blocks. Sulfonation levels varied from 1.7 to 4.7 mol % and the sodium and potassium neutralized forms were compared to the parent block copolymers. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) of the block copolymer films indicated the existence

  8. Phase Behavior of Binary Blends of High Molecular Weight Diblock Copolymers with a Low Molecular Weight Triblock

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mickiewicz, Rafal A.; Ntoukas, Eleftherios; Avgeropoulos, Apostolos

    2009-08-26

    Binary blends of four different high molecular weight poly(styrene-b-isoprene) (SI) diblock copolymers with a lower molecular weight poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene) (SIS) triblock copolymer were prepared, and their morphology was characterized by transmission electron microscopy and ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering. All the neat block copolymers have nearly symmetric composition and exhibit the lamellar morphology. The SI diblock copolymers had number-average molecular weights, Mn, in the range 4.4 x 10{sup 5}--1.3 x 10{sup 6} g/mol and volume fractions of poly(styrene), {Phi}{sub PS}, in the range 0.43--0.49, and the SIS triblock had a molecular weight of Mn 6.2 x 10{sup 4} g/mol with {Phi}{sub PS} =more » 0.41. The high molecular weight diblock copolymers are very strongly segregating, with interaction parameter values, {chi}N, in the range 470--1410. A morphological phase diagram in the parameter space of molecular weight ratio (R = M{sub n}{sup diblock}/1/2M{sub n}{sup triblock}) and blend composition was constructed, with R values in the range between 14 and 43, which are higher than previously reported. The phase diagram revealed a large miscibility gap for the blends, with macrophase separation into two distinct types of microphase-separated domains for weight fractions of SI, w{sub SI} < 0.9, implying virtually no solubility of the much higher molecular weight diblocks in the lower molecular weight triblock. For certain blend compositions, above R 30, morphological transitions from the lamellar to cylindrical and bicontinuous structures were also observed.« less

  9. Poly(styrene-co-butadiene) random copolymer thin films and nanostructures on a mica surface: morphology and contact angles of nanodroplets.

    PubMed

    McClements, Jake; Buffone, Cosimo; Shaver, Michael P; Sefiane, Khellil; Koutsos, Vasileios

    2017-09-20

    The self-assembly of poly(styrene-co-butadiene) random copolymers on mica surfaces was studied by varying solution concentrations and polymer molecular weights. Toluene solutions of the poly(styrene-co-butadiene) samples were spin coated onto a mica surface and the resulting polymer morphology was investigated by atomic force microscopy. At higher concentrations, thin films formed with varying thicknesses; some dewetting was observed which depended on the molecular weight. Total dewetting did not occur despite the polymer's low glass transition temperature. Instead, partial dewetting was observed suggesting that the polymer was in a metastable equilibrium state. At lower concentrations, spherical cap shaped nanodroplets formed with varying sizes from single polymer chains to aggregates containing millions of chains. As the molecular weight was increased, fewer aggregates were observed on the surface, albeit with larger sizes resulting from increased solution viscosities and more chain entanglements at higher molecular weights. The contact angles of the nanodroplets were shown to be size dependent. A minimum contact angle occurs for droplets with radii of 100-250 nm at each molecular weight. Droplets smaller than 100 nm showed a sharp increase in contact angle; attributed to an increase in the elastic modulus of the droplets, in addition, to a positive line tension value. Droplets larger than 250 nm also showed an increased contact angle due to surface heterogeneities which cannot be avoided for larger droplets. This increase in contact angle plateaus as the droplet size reaches the macroscopic scale.

  10. A molecular dynamics study on Young's modulus and tribology of carbon nanotube reinforced styrene-butadiene rubber.

    PubMed

    Chawla, Raj; Sharma, Sumit

    2018-03-18

    Styrene-butadiene rubber is a copolymer widely used in making car tires and has excellent abrasion resistance. The Young's modulus and tribology of pure styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) polymer and carbon nanotube reinforced polymer composites have been investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The mechanism of enhanced tribology properties using carbon nanotube has been studied and discussed. The obtained Young's modulus shows the enhancement in mechanical properties of SBR polymer when carbon nanotubes are used as reinforcement. The concentration, temperature and velocity profiles, radial distribution function, frictional stresses, and cohesive energy density are calculated and analyzed in detail. The Young's modulus of SBR matrix increases about 29.16% in the presence of the 5% CNT. The atom movement velocity and average cohesive energy density in the friction area of pure SBR matrix was found to be more than that of the CNT/SBR composite. Graphical abstract Initial and final conditions of (a) pure SBR matrix and (b) CNT/SBR matrix subjected toshear loading and frictional stresses of top Fe layers of both pure SBR and CNT/SBR composite.

  11. Sulfonated Styrene-(ethylene-co-butylene)-styrene/Montmorillonite Clay Nanocomposites: Synthesis, Morphology, and Properties

    PubMed Central

    2008-01-01

    Sulfonated styrene-(ethylene-butylene)-styrene triblock copolymer (SSEBS) was synthesized by reaction of acetyl sulfate with SEBS. SSESB-clay nanocomposites were then prepared from hydrophilic Na-montmorillonite (MT) and organically (quaternary amine) modified hydrophobic nanoclay (OMT) at very low loading. SEBS did not show improvement in properties with MT-based nanocomposites. On sulfonation (3 and 6 weight%) of SEBS, hydrophilic MT clay-based nanocomposites exhibited better mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and thermal properties, and also controlled water–methanol mixture uptake and permeation and AC resistance. Microstructure determined by X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy due to better dispersion of MT nanoclay particles and interaction of MT with SSEBS matrix was responsible for this effect. The resulting nanocomposites have potential as proton transfer membranes for Fuel Cell applications.

  12. Polydispersity effects in poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-ethylene oxide) triblock terpolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meuler, Adam J.; Ellison, Christopher J.; Qin, Jian; Evans, Christopher M.; Hillmyer, Marc A.; Bates, Frank S.

    2009-06-01

    Four hydroxyl-terminated poly(isoprene-b-styrene) diblock copolymers with comparable molecular weights and compositions (equivalent volume fractions of polyisoprene and polystyrene) but different polystyrene block polydispersity indices (Mw/Mn=1.06,1.16,1.31,1.44) were synthesized by anionic polymerization using either sec-butyllithium or the functional organolithium 3-triisopropylsilyloxy-1-propyllithium. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) blocks were grown from the end of each of these parent diblocks to yield four series of poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-ethylene oxide) (ISO) triblock terpolymers that were used to interrogate the effects of varying the polydispersity of the middle bridged polystyrene block. In addition to the neat triblock samples, 13 multicomponent blends were prepared at four different compositions from the ISO materials containing a polystyrene segment with Mw/Mn=1.06; these blends were used to probe the effects of increasing the polydispersity of the terminal PEO block. The melt-phase behavior of all samples was characterized using small-angle X-ray scattering and dynamic mechanical spectroscopy. Numerous polydispersity-driven morphological transitions are reported, including transitions from lamellae to core-shell gyroid, from core-shell gyroid to hexagonally packed cylinders, and from network morphologies [either O70 (the orthorhombic Fddd network) or core-shell gyroid] to lamellae. Domain periodicities and order-disorder transition temperatures also vary with block polydispersities. Self-consistent field theory calculations were performed to supplement the experimental investigations and help elucidate the molecular factors underlying the polydispersity effects. The consequences of varying the polydispersity of the terminal PEO block are comparable to the polydispersity effects previously reported in AB diblock copolymers. Namely, domain periodicities increase with increasing polydispersity and domain interfaces tend to curve toward polydisperse

  13. “Uncontrolled” Preparation of Disperse Poly(lactide)- block -poly(styrene)- block -poly(lactide) for Nanopatterning Applications

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vanderlaan, Marie E.; Hillmyer, Marc A.

    We report the facile synthesis of well-defined ABA poly(lactide)-block-poly(styrene)-block-poly(lactide) (LSL) triblock copolymers having a disperse poly(styrene) midblock (Ð = 1.27–2.24). The direct synthesis of telechelic α,ω-hydroxypoly(styrene) (HO-PS-OH) midblocks was achieved using a commercially available difunctional free radical diazo initiator 2,2'-azobis[2-methyl-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)propionamide]. Poly(lactide) (PLA) end blocks were subsequently grown from HO-PS-OH macroinitiators via ring-opening transesterification polymerization of (±)-lactide using the most common and prevalent catalyst system available, tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate. Fourteen LSL triblock copolymers with total molar masses Mn,total = 24–181 kg/mol and PLA volume fractions fPLA = 0.15–0.68 were synthesized and thoroughly characterized. The self-assembly of symmetric triblocks was analyzed in themore » bulk using small-angle X-ray scattering and in thin films using grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering and atomic force microscopy. We demonstrate both the bulk and thin film self-assembly of LSL disperse triblocks gave well-organized nanostructures with uniform domain sizes suitable for nanopatterning applications.« less

  14. Using graphene/styrene-isoprene-styrene copolymer composite thin film as a flexible microstrip antenna for the detection of heptane vapors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Olejnik, Robert; Matyas, Jiri; Slobodian, Petr; Riha, Pavel

    2018-03-01

    Most portable devices, such as mobile phones or tablets, use antennas made of copper. This paper demonstrates the possible use of antenna constructed from electrically conductive polymer composite materials for use in those applications. The method of preparation and the properties of the graphene/styrene-isoprene-styrene copolymer as flexible microstrip antenna are described in this contribution. Graphene/styrene-isoprene-styrene copolymer toluene solution was prepared by means of ultrasound and the PET substrate was dip coated to reach a fine thin film. The main advantages of using PET as a substrate are low weight and flexibility. The final size of the flexible microstrip antenna was 10 × 25 mm with thickness of 0.48 mm (PET substrate 0.25 mm) with a weight of 0.110 g. The resulting antenna operates at a frequency of 1.8 GHz and gain ‑40.02 dB.

  15. Hollow carbon nanospheres using an asymmetric triblock copolymer structure directing agent.

    PubMed

    Li, Yunqi; Tan, Haibo; Salunkhe, Rahul R; Tang, Jing; Shrestha, Lok Kumar; Bastakoti, Bishnu Prasad; Rong, Hongpan; Takei, Toshiaki; Henzie, Joel; Yamauchi, Yusuke; Ariga, Katsuhiko

    2016-12-20

    We introduce a simple method to prepare hollow carbon nanospheres (HCNs) by using triblock copolymer poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine-b-ethylene oxide) (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO) micelles as a new class of soft-templates. Simply by changing the solvent we can prepare ultra-small sized micelles of the triblock copolymer PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO soft template to obtain HCNs with ultra-small diameters (43 nm) and hollow cores (19 nm). Furthermore, we use these HCNs to make electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) that exhibit superior performance.

  16. The individual and cumulative effect of brominated flame retardant and polyvinylchloride (PVC) on thermal degradation of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer.

    PubMed

    Brebu, Mihai; Bhaskar, Thallada; Murai, Kazuya; Muto, Akinori; Sakata, Yusaku; Uddin, Md Azhar

    2004-08-01

    Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers without and with a polybrominated epoxy type flame retardant were thermally degraded at 450 degrees C alone (10 g) and mixed with polyvinylchloride (PVC) (8 g/2 g). Gaseous and liquid products of degradation were analysed by various gas chromatographic methods (GC with TCD, FID, AED, MSD) in order to determine the individual and cumulative effect of bromine and chlorine on the quality and quantity of degradation compounds. It was found that nitrogen, chlorine, bromine and oxygen are present as organic compounds in liquid products, their quantity depends on the pyrolysed polymer or polymer mixture. Bromophenol and dibromophenols were the main brominated compounds that come from the flame retardant. 1-Chloroethylbenzene was the main chlorine compound observed in liquid products. It was also determined that interactions appear at high temperatures during decomposition between the flame retardant, PVC and the ABS copolymer.

  17. Molecular analysis on the utilization of oil palm empty fruit bunches fiber as reinforcement for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene biocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hermawan, B.; Nikmatin, S.; Alatas, H.; Sudaryanto; Sukaryo, S. G.

    2017-05-01

    Oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) was one of the solid waste produced by the palm oil factory and were totally plentiful in biomass. OPEFB fiber used as reinforcement of polymer matrix acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The use of FTIR is to see that there is no changes in the molecules of the constituent biocomposite ABS and OPEFB. The reactivity of butadiene and styrene through the double bond- π conjugated system, contributed to the bond reaction with the maleic acid as compatibilizer witch is grafted to the system. It is concluded that the posible grafting reaction occurs by the addition of the MAH to the double bond of the butadiene and styrene. The hydroxyl group of cellulose can interact with this maleic acid to form a bond through the carboxyl group.

  18. Particle reinforced composites from acrylamide modified blend of styrene-butadiene and natural rubber

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Blends of styrene-butadiene rubber and natural rubber that provide balanced properties were modified with acrylamide and reinforced with soy protein particles. The rubber composites show improved mechanical properties. Both modified rubber and composites showed a faster curing rate. The crosslinking...

  19. CASE-COHORT STUDY OF STYRENE EXPOSURE AND ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE INVESTIGATORS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Investigators examined workers exposed to styrene while working in styrene-butadiene polymer manufacturing plants between 1943 and 1982. Workers who had died from ischemic heart disease were compared to a subgroup of all men employed in two styrene-butadiene polymer manufac...

  20. Birchwood biochar as partial carbon black replacement in styrene-butadiene rubber composites

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Birchwood feedstock was used to make slow pyrolysis biochar that contained 89% carbon and < 2% ash. This biochar was blended with carbon black as filler for styrene-butadiene rubber. Composites made from blended fillers of 25/75 biochar/carbon black were equivalent to or superior to their 100% carbo...

  1. 21 CFR 177.1040 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer. 177.1040 Section 177.1040 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES... Internal Standard Method”; “Infrared Spectrophotometric Determination of Polymer Extracted from Barex 210...

  2. 21 CFR 177.1830 - Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers. 177.1830 Section 177.1830 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as...

  3. Reducing the photo-bleaching effect of a new europium complex embedded in styrene butadiene copolymer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jiménez, G. Lesly; Reyes-Rodríguez, J. L.; Padilla, Isela; Alarcón-Flores, G.; Falcony, C.

    2018-02-01

    A highly luminescent europium complex obtained with two different ligands, succinimide (SI) and 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) , was synthetized with different TTA concentrations. The photoluminescence (PL) emission from these materials corresponds to the characteristic inter-electronic energy level transitions of the Eu3+ ions. However, the excitation spectrum is strongly dependent on the presence of TTA, having an optimum response when 0.75 mmol of this compound is added to the EuL3(H2O)3 complex. The quantum yield obtained by these powders were around 72 % ± 1.7 % indicating an optimum sensitization of these complex. The EuL3 TTA complex with the best PL properties was embedded in a styrene butadiene copolymer (SBC) film, produced by the drop casting method, obtaining similar PL behavior at different concentrations, the highest intensity was observed at 1.2% (w/v) of EuL3 TTA complex and the quantum yield of these composite films was 60.5 % ± 2 % . These films were exposed to continuous UV irradiation and after 141 h no photo-bleaching effect was observed in contrast with the EuL3 TTA complex that exhibited a noticeable photoluminescence intensity degradation at much shorter exposure times. Both the Eu-complexes and the composite films were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, SEM and fluorescence spectroscopy.

  4. ABC triblock copolymer vesicles with mesh-like morphology.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Wei; Chen, Dian; Hu, Yunxia; Grason, Gregory M; Russell, Thomas P

    2011-01-25

    Polymer vesicles made from poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-2-vinyl pyridine) (PI-b-PS-b-P2VP) triblock copolymer confined within the nanopores of an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane are studied. It was found that these vesicles have well-defined, nanoscopic size, and complex microphase-separated hydrophobic membranes, comprised of the PS and PI blocks, while the coronas are formed by the P2VP block. Vesicle formation was tracked using both transmission and scanning electron microscopy. A mesh-like morphology formed in the membrane at a well-defined composition of the three blocks that can be tuned by changing the copolymer composition. The nanoscale confinement, copolymer composition, and subtle molecular interactions contribute to the generation of these vesicles with such unusual morphologies.

  5. ABC Triblock Copolymer Vesicles with Mesh-like Morphology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Wei; Russell, Thomas; Grason, Gregory

    2010-03-01

    Polymer vesicles can be made from poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-2-vinylpyridene) (PI-b-PS-b-P2VP) triblock copolymer under the confinement of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane. It was found that these vesicles have well-defined, nanoscopic size and a microphase-separated hydrophobic core, comprised of PS and PI blocks. Vesicle formation was tracked using both transmission and scanning electron microscopy. A mesh-like morphology formed in the core at a well-defined composition of three blocks. Confinement played an important role in generating these vesicles with such an unusual morphology.

  6. Phase behavior of model ABC triblock copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chatterjee, Joon

    The phase behavior of poly(isoprene-b-styrene- b-ethylene oxide) (ISO), a model ABC triblock copolymer has been studied. This class of materials exhibit self-assembly, forming a large array of ordered morphologies at length scales of 5-100 nm. The formation of stable three-dimensionally continuous network morphologies is of special interest in this study. Since these nanostructures considerably impact the material properties, fundamental knowledge for designing ABC systems have high technological importance for realizing applications in the areas of nanofabrication, nanoporous media, separation membranes, drug delivery and high surface area catalysts. A comprehensive framework was developed to describe the phase behavior of the ISO triblock copolymers at weak to intermediate segregation strengths spanning a wide range of composition. Phases were characterized through a combination of characterization techniques, including small angle x-ray scattering, dynamic mechanical spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and birefringence measurements. Combined with previous investigations on ISO, six different stable ordered state symmetries have been identified: lamellae (LAM), Fddd orthorhombic network (O70), double gyroid (Q230), alternating gyroid (Q214), hexagonal (HEX), and body-centered cubic (BCC). The phase map was found to be somewhat asymmetric around the fI = fO isopleth. This work provides a guide for theoretical studies and gives insight into the intricate effects of various parameters on the self-assembly of ABC triblock copolymers. Experimental SAXS data evaluated with a simple scattering intensity model show that local mixing varies continuously across the phase map between states of two- and three-domain segregation. Strategies of blending homopolymers with ISO triblock copolymer were employed for studying the swelling properties of a lamellar state. Results demonstrate that lamellar domains swell or shrink depending upon the type of homopolymer that

  7. One-step preparation of superhydrophobic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer coating for ultrafast separation of water-in-oil emulsions.

    PubMed

    Deng, Wanshun; Long, Mengying; Zhou, Qiannan; Wen, Ni; Deng, Wenli

    2018-02-01

    Superhydrophobic membranes with opposite wettability toward water and oil are able to separate water-in-oil emulsions. By constructing porous and hierarchal-structured superhydrophobic coating on filter paper, we hope a quick separation process could be achieved due to the acceleration of both demulsification and penetration process. Here, superhydrophobic coatings were prepared by simply spraying environmental and cost-effective acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS) colloid in dichloromethane onto filter paper. The morphologies and wettability of the obtained coatings were carefully studied. Moreover, the separation performances in dealing with various surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil emulsions (SSWOE) were also investigated to verify our hypothesis. The morphologies of the ABS coatings varied with its weight concentration in dichloromethane and they changed from porous and plain surface into porous and hierarchal-structured surface. Besides, the hydrophobicity of the above coatings varied form hydrophobic to superhydrophobic. Moreover, the resulted superhydrophobic membranes show great separation capability in separating various span 80-stabilized water-in-oil emulsions with oil filtrate purities larger than 99.90% and huge penetration fluxes whose maximum is over 13,000L/(m 2 h). Thus, we envision that such membrane can be a practical candidate in dealing with water-in-oil emulsions to obtain pure oils. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Chain exchange in triblock copolymer micelles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lu, Jie; Lodge, Timothy; Bates, Frank

    2015-03-01

    Block polymer micelles offer a host of technological applications including drug delivery, viscosity modification, toughening of plastics, and colloidal stabilization. Molecular exchange between micelles directly influences the stability, structure and access to an equilibrium state in such systems and this property recently has been shown to be extraordinarily sensitive to the core block molecular weight in diblock copolymers. The dependence of micelle chain exchange dynamics on molecular architecture has not been reported. The present work conclusively addresses this issue using time-resolved small-angle neutron scattering (TR-SANS) applied to complimentary S-EP-S and EP-S-EP triblock copolymers dissolved in squalane, a selective solvent for the EP blocks, where S and EP refer to poly(styrene) and poly(ethylenepropylene), respectively. Following the overall SANS intensity as a function of time from judiciously deuterium labelled polymer and solvent mixtures directly probes the rate of molecular exchange. Remarkably, the two triblocks display exchange rates that differ by approximately ten orders of magnitude, even though the solvophobic S blocks are of comparable size. This discovery is considered in the context of a model that successfully explains S-EP diblock exchange dynamics.

  9. Fast and robust method for the determination of microstructure and composition in butadiene, styrene-butadiene, and isoprene rubber by near-infrared spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Vilmin, Franck; Dussap, Claude; Coste, Nathalie

    2006-06-01

    In the tire industry, synthetic styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), butadiene rubber (BR), and isoprene rubber (IR) elastomers are essential for conferring to the product its properties of grip and rolling resistance. Their physical properties depend on their chemical composition, i. e., their microstructure and styrene content, which must be accurately controlled. This paper describes a fast, robust, and highly reproducible near-infrared analytical method for the quantitative determination of the microstructure and styrene content. The quantitative models are calculated with the help of pure spectral profiles estimated from a partial least squares (PLS) regression, using (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) as the reference method. This versatile approach allows the models to be applied over a large range of compositions, from a single BR to an SBR-IR blend. The resulting quantitative predictions are independent of the sample path length. As a consequence, the sample preparation is solvent free and simplified with a very fast (five minutes) hot filming step of a bulk polymer piece. No precise thickness control is required. Thus, the operator effect becomes negligible and the method is easily transferable. The root mean square error of prediction, depending on the rubber composition, is between 0.7% and 1.3%. The reproducibility standard error is less than 0.2% in every case.

  10. 21 CFR 177.1820 - Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... will pass through a U.S. standard sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard sieve No. 20 0.02... sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard sieve No. 20. 2. Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer... particles of a size that will pass through a U.S. standard sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard...

  11. 21 CFR 177.1820 - Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... will pass through a U.S. standard sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard sieve No. 20 0.02... sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard sieve No. 20. 2. Styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer... particles of a size that will pass through a U.S. standard sieve No. 10 and will be held on a U.S. standard...

  12. Evaluating corn starch and corn stover biochar as renewable filler in carboxylated styrene-butadiene rubber composites

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Corn starch, corn flour, and corn stover biochar were evaluated as potential renewable substitutes for carbon black as filler in rubber composites using carboxylated styrene-butadiene as the rubber matrix. Previous work has shown that starch-based fillers have very good reinforcement properties at t...

  13. Durability of styrene-butadiene latex modified concrete

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Shaker, F.A.; El-Dieb, A.S.; Reda, M.M.

    1997-05-01

    The durability of reinforced concrete structures represents a major concern to many investigators. The use of latex modified concrete (LMC) in construction has urged researchers to review and investigate its different properties. This study is part of a comprehensive investigation carried on the use of polymers in concrete. The main objective of this study to investigate and evaluate the main durability aspects of Styrene-Butadiene latex modified concrete (LMC) compared to those of conventional concrete. Also, the main microstructural characteristics of LMC were studied using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The SEM investigation of the LMC showed major differences in itsmore » microstructure compared to that of the conventional concrete. The LMC proved to be superior in its durability compared to the durability of conventional concrete especially its water tightness (measured by water penetration, absorption, and sorptivity tests), abrasion, corrosion, and sulphate resistance.« less

  14. Covalent attachment of microbial lipase onto microporous styrene-divinylbenzene copolymer by means of polyglutaraldehyde.

    PubMed

    Dizge, Nadir; Keskinler, Bülent; Tanriseven, Aziz

    2008-10-01

    A novel method for immobilization of Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase onto polyglutaraldehyde-activated poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) (STY-DVB), which is a hydrophobic microporous support has been successfully developed. The copolymer was prepared by the polymerization of the continuous phase of a high internal phase emulsion (polyHIPE). The concentrated emulsion consists of a mixture of styrene and divinylbenzene containing a suitable surfactant and an initiator as the continuous phase and water as the dispersed phase. Lipase from T. lanuginosus was immobilized covalently with 85% yield on the internal surface of the hydrophobic microporous poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer and used as a biocatalyst for the transesterification reaction. The immobilized enzyme has been fully active 30 days in storage and retained the activity during the 15 repeated batch reactions. The properties of free and immobilized lipase were studied. The effects of protein concentration, pH, temperature, and time on the immobilization, activity, and stability of the immobilized lipase were also studied. The newly synthesized microporous poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer constitutes excellent support for lipase. It given rise to high immobilization yield, retains enzymatic activity for 30 days, stable in structure and allows for the immobilization of large amount of protein (11.4mg/g support). Since immobilization is simple yet effective, the newly immobilized lipase could be used in several application including oil hydrolysis, production of modified oils, biodiesel synthesis, and removal of fatty acids from oils.

  15. Properties of styrene-maleic anhydride copolymers containing wood-based fillers

    Treesearch

    John Simonsen; Rodney Jacobson; Roger Rowell

    1998-01-01

    Recycled newsprint (ONP) and dry process aspen fiber were combined with styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymers containing either 7 or 14 percent maleic anhydride. The fiber-filled SMA composites were equivalent or superior to unfilled SMA in strength, stiffness, and notched Izod impact strength. ONP performed surprisingly well as a filler. Unnotched Izod impact...

  16. Poly(Acrylic Acid-b-Styrene) Amphiphilic Multiblock Copolymers as Building Blocks for the Assembly of Discrete Nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Greene, Anna C.; Zhu, Jiahua; Pochan, Darrin J.; Jia, Xinqiao; Kiick, Kristi L.

    2011-01-01

    In order to expand the utility of current polymeric micellar systems, we have developed amphiphilic multiblock copolymers containing alternating blocks of poly(acrylic acid) and poly(styrene). Heterotelechelic poly(tert-butyl acrylate-b-styrene) diblock copolymers containing an α-alkyne and an ω-azide were synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), allowing control over the molecular weight while maintaining narrow polydispersity indices. The multiblock copolymers were constructed by copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition of azide-alkyne end functional diblock copolymers which were then characterized by 1H NMR, FT-IR and SEC. The tert-butyl moieties of the poly(tert-butyl acrylate-b-styrene) multiblock copolymers were easily removed to form the poly(acrylic acid-b-styrene) multiblock copolymer ((PAA-PS)9), which contained up to 9 diblock repeats. The amphiphilic multiblock (PAA-PS)9 (Mn = 73.3 kg/mol) was self-assembled by dissolution into tetrahydrofuran and extensive dialysis against deionized water for 4 days. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) for (PAA-PS)9 was determined by fluorescence spectroscopy using pyrene as a fluorescent probe and was found to be very low at 2 × 10-4 mg/mL. The (PAA-PS)9 multiblock was also analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The hydrodynamic diameter of the particles was found to be 11 nm. Discrete spherical particles were observed by TEM with an average particle diameter of 14 nm. The poly(acrylic acid) periphery of the spherical particles should allow for future conjugation of biomolecules. PMID:21552373

  17. Preparation and infrared/raman classification of 630 spectroscopically encoded styrene copolymers.

    PubMed

    Fenniri, Hicham; Chun, Sangki; Terreau, Owen; Bravo-Vasquez, Juan-Pablo

    2008-01-01

    The barcoded resins (BCRs) were introduced recently as a platform for encoded combinatorial chemistry. One of the main challenges yet to be overcome is the demonstration that a large number of BCRs could be generated and classified with high confidence. Here, we describe the synthesis and classification of 630 polystyrene-based copolymers prepared from the combinatorial association of 15 spectroscopically active styrene monomers. Each of the 630 copolymers displayed a unique vibrational fingerprint (infrared and Raman), which was converted into a spectral vector. To each of the 630 copolymers, a vector of the known (reference) composition was assigned. Unknown (prediction) vectors were decoded using multivariate data analysis. From the inner product of the reference and prediction vectors, a correlation map comparing 396 900 copolymer pairs (630 x 630) was generated. In 100% of the cases, the highest correlation was obtained for polymer pairs in which the reference and prediction vectors correspond to copolymers prepared from identical styrene monomers, thus demonstrating the high reliability of this encoding strategy. We have also established that the spectroscopic barcodes generated from the Raman and infrared spectra are independent of the copolymers' morphology (beaded versus bulk polymers). Besides the demonstration of the generality of the polymer barcoding strategy, the analytical methods developed here could in principle be extended to the investigation of the composition and purity of any other synthetic polymer and biopolymer library, or even scaffold-based combinatorial libraries.

  18. Effect of strain rate on mechanical properties of melt-processed soy flour composite filler and styrene-butadiene blends

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Polymer composites were prepared by melt-mixing polymer and soy flour composite fillers in an internal mixer. Soy flour composite fillers were prepared by blending aqueous dispersion of soy flour with styrene-butadiene rubber latex, dried, and cryogenically ground into powders. Upon crosslinking, th...

  19. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization sample preparation optimization for structural characterization of poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene) copolymers.

    PubMed

    Tisdale, Evgenia; Kennedy, Devin; Xu, Xiaodong; Wilkins, Charles

    2014-01-15

    The influence of the sample preparation parameters (the choice of the matrix, matrix:analyte ratio, salt:analyte ratio) was investigated and optimal conditions were established for the MALDI time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis of the poly(styrene-co-pentafluorostyrene) copolymers. These were synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization. Use of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid as matrix resulted in spectra with consistently high ion yields for all matrix:analyte:salt ratios tested. The optimized MALDI procedure was successfully applied to the characterization of three copolymers obtained by varying the conditions of polymerization reaction. It was possible to establish the nature of the end groups, calculate molecular weight distributions, and determine the individual length distributions for styrene and pentafluorostyrene monomers, contained in the resulting copolymers. Based on the data obtained, it was concluded that individual styrene chain length distributions are more sensitive to the change in the composition of the catalyst (the addition of small amount of CuBr2) than is the pentafluorostyrene component distribution. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Local Structure and Ion Transport in Glassy Poly(ethylene oxide styrene) Copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Han-Chang; Mays, Jimmy; Sokolov, Alexei P.; Winey, Karen I.

    2014-03-01

    Polymer electrolytes have attracted attention for a wide variety of applications in energy production such as lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. The concept of free volume provides important information about ion mobility and chain dynamics in the polymer matrix. Researchers have recently demonstrated that ion transport in glassy polymer can be improved by designing a system with high free volume. We have studied the effect of temperature and humidity on the intermolecular correlations of poly(ethylene oxide styrene-block-styrene) (PEOSt- b-St) block copolymer and poly(ethylene oxide styrene) (PEOSt) homopolymer using in situ multi-angle x-ray scattering across a wide range of scattering angles (q = 0.007-1.5 Å-1) . An increase in backbone-to-backbone distance is observed, indicating an increase in free volume between different polymer main chains. Structural characterization of the polymer segments will be discussed together with conductivity and dielectric results to better understand the ion transport mechanism in the local environment of the polymer system. Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee.

  1. Compatibilization of HIPS/ABS blends from WEEE by using Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR).

    PubMed

    Vazquez, Yamila V; Barbosa, Silvia E

    2018-07-01

    The aim of this work is to develop compatibilization strategies for High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)/ Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) blends from WEEE in order to add value to these recycled plastics by improving their mechanical performance. Results from a screening study of HIPS/ABS blends compatibilization by the addition of Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) are presented. Two different weight proportion of HIPS/ABS physical blends were analyzed, 80/20 and 20/80, with three different concentration of SBR: 2, 10 and 20 wt%. Compatibilization efficiency was analyzed from an accurate thermal and mechanical analysis, by comparing each physical blend and corresponding compatibilized blends with SBR. Results were discussed relating glass transition changes with mechanical performance, both aspects were interpreted in terms of blend morphology. Phase and fillers dispersion and distribution as well as SBR amount and its interaction with each phase were accurate analyzed. Compatibilization of HIPS/ABS blends from WEEE with the addition of SBR is effective in blends with HIPS as main component. With the addition of 2 wt% of SBR, strength and toughness have notably increased respect to the corresponding physical blend, 244% and 186% respectively. From this screening study is possible to infer that SBR is a sustainable and efficient compatibilizer of HIPS rich blends allowing to obtain a final blend that can be used as a replacement material of separated resins from WEEE. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Multicomponent Solvated Triblock Copolymer Network Systems: Fundamental Insights and Emerging Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krishnan, Arjun Sitaraman

    Block copolymers have received significant research attention in recent times due to their ability to spontaneously self-assemble into a variety of nanostructures. Thermoplastic elastomers composed of styrenic triblock copolymers are of great importance in applications such as adhesives and vibration dampening due to their shape memory, resilience and facile processing. The swelling of these polymers by adding midblock selective solvents or oligomers provides an easy route by which to modify the morphology and mechanical behavior of these systems. We first consider a ternary blend of a poly[styrene- b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene] triblock copolymer (SEBS) and mixtures of two midblock selective co-solvents, with significantly different physical states. We use dynamic rheology to study the viscoelastic response of a wide variety of systems under oscillatory shear. Frequency spectra acquired at ambient temperature display viscoelastic behavior that shifts in the frequency domain depending on the co-solvent composition. For each copolymer concentration, all the frequency data can be shifted by time-composition superpositioning (tCS) to yield a single master-curve. tCS fails at low frequencies due to presence of endblock pullout, which is a fundamentally different relaxation process from segmental relaxation of the midblock. As an emerging technology, we examine SEBS-oil gels as dielectric elastomers. Dielectric elastomers constitute one class of electroactive polymers (EAPs), polymeric materials that respond to an electric stimulus by changing their macroscopic dimensions, thereby converting electrical energy into mechanical work. We use standard configuration of EAP devices involving stretching, or "prestraining," the elastomer film biaxially. The effect of experimental parameters such as film thickness and amount of prestrain on the (electro)mechanical properties of the material become apparent by recasting as-obtained electroactuation data into compressive

  3. 40 CFR 721.10389 - Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10389 Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses...

  4. 40 CFR 721.10389 - Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10389 Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses...

  5. 40 CFR 721.10389 - Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL ACT SIGNIFICANT NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10389 Styrene, copolymer with acrylic acid, salt with alkoxylated alkenylamine (generic). (a) Chemical substance and significant new uses...

  6. Two-dimensional phase separated structures of block copolymers on solids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sen, Mani; Jiang, Naisheng; Endoh, Maya; Koga, Tadanori; Ribbe, Alexander

    The fundamental, yet unsolved question in block copolymer (BCP) thin films is the self-organization process of BCPs at the solid-polymer melt interface. We here focus on the self-organization processes of cylinder-forming polystyrene-block-poly (4-vinylpyridine) diblock copolymer and lamellar-forming poly (styrene-block-butadiene-block-styrene) triblock copolymer on Si substrates as model systems. In order to reveal the buried interfacial structures, the following experimental protocols were utilized: the BCP monolayer films were annealed under vacuum at T>Tg of the blocks (to equilibrate the melts); vitrification of the annealed BCP films via rapid quench to room temperature; subsequent intensive solvent leaching (to remove unadsorbed chains) with chloroform, a non-selective good solvent for the blocks. The strongly bound BCP layers were then characterized by using atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, grazing incidence small angle X-ray scattering, and X-ray reflectivity. The results showed that both blocks lie flat on the substrate, forming the two-dimensional, randomly phase-separated structure irrespective of their microdomain structures and interfacial energetics. Acknowledgement of financial support from NSF Grant (CMMI -1332499).

  7. Immobilization of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans on sulfonated microporous poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer with granulated activated carbon and its use in bio-oxidation of ferrous iron.

    PubMed

    Koseoglu-Imer, Derya Yuksel; Keskinler, Bulent

    2013-01-01

    The immobilization efficiencies of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans cells on different immobilization matrices were investigated for biooxidation of ferrous iron (Fe(2+)) to ferric iron (Fe(3+)). Six different matrices were used such as the polyurethane foam (PUF), granular activated carbon (GAC), raw poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer (rawSDVB), raw poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer with granular activated carbon (rawSDVB-GAC), sulfonated poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer (sulfSDVB) and sulfonated poly(styrene-divinylbenzene) copolymer with granular activated carbon (sulfSDVB-GAC). The sulfSDVB-GAC polymer showed the best performance for Fe(2+) biooxidation. It was used at packed-bed bioreactor and the kinetic parameters were obtained. The highest Fe(2+) biooxidation rate (R) was found to be 4.02 g/L h at the true dilution rate (Dt) of 2.47 1/h and hydraulic retention time (τ) of 0.4 h. The sulfSDVB-GAC polymer was used for the first time as immobilization material for A. ferrooxidans for Fe(2+) biooxidation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. New Polytetrahydrofuran Graft Copolymers.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-03-15

    chioroprene) , chiorobutyl - ~~~~~ rubber , bromobutyl rubber , chlorinated EPDM , chlorinated poly(buta— diene) and chlorinated butadiene styrene copolymer...bromobutyl rubber , which after dehalogenation is unstable with respect to conjugated dienes, the yields of graft copolymer are low. With poly(chloroprerte

  9. Asymmetric Membranes from Two Chemically Distinct Triblock Terpolymers Blended during Standard Membrane Fabrication.

    PubMed

    Li, Yuk Mun; Srinivasan, Divya; Vaidya, Parth; Gu, Yibei; Wiesner, Ulrich

    2016-10-01

    Deviating from the traditional formation of block copolymer derived isoporous membranes from one block copolymer chemistry, here asymmetric membranes with isoporous surface structure are derived from two chemically distinct block copolymers blended during standard membrane fabrication. As a first proof of principle, the fabrication of asymmetric membranes is reported, which are blended from two chemically distinct triblock terpolymers, poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-(4-vinyl)pyridine) (ISV) and poly(isoprene-b-styrene-b-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (ISA), differing in the pH-responsive hydrophilic segment. Using block copolymer self-assembly and nonsolvent induced phase separation process, pure and blended membranes are prepared by varying weight ratios of ISV to ISA. Pure and blended membranes exhibit a thin, selective layer of pores above a macroporous substructure. Observed permeabilities at varying pH values of blended membranes depend on relative triblock terpolymer composition. These results open a new direction for membrane fabrication through the use of mixtures of chemically distinct block copolymers enabling the tailoring of membrane surface chemistries and functionalities. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  10. Preparation of hydrophilic styrene maleic anhydride copolymer fibers for use in papermaking

    DOEpatents

    Rave, Terence W.

    1979-01-01

    Hydrophilic fibers may be prepared by discharging a heated and pressurized dispersion of a styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer into a zone of reduced temperature and pressure, and then modifying the fibers so produced by treatment with an aqueous admixture of selected cationic and anionic water-soluble, nitrogen-containing polymers. Blends of the hydrophilic fibers with wood pulp provide paper products having improved physical properties.

  11. Morphological and mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber/nano copper nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harandi, Maryam Hadizadeh; Alimoradi, Fakhrodin; Rowshan, Gholamhussein; Faghihi, Morteza; Keivani, Maryam; Abadyan, Mohamadreza

    In this research, rubber based nanocomposites with presence of nanoparticle has been studied. Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)/nanocopper (NC) composites were prepared using two-roll mill method. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed proper dispersion of NC in the SBR matrix without substantial agglomeration of nanoparticles. To evaluate the curing properties of nanocomposite samples, swelling and cure rheometric tests were conducted. Moreover, the rheological studies were carried out over a range of shear rates. The effect of NC particles was examined on the thermal behavior of the SBR using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, tensile tests were employed to investigate the capability of nanoparticles to enhance mechanical behavior of the compounds. The results showed enhancement in tensile properties with incorporation of NC to SBR matrix. Moreover, addition of NC increased shear viscosity and curing time of SBR composites.

  12. Biodegradation behavior of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) reinforced with modified coconut shell powder

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sreejith, M. P.; Balan, Aparna K.; Shaniba, V.; Jinitha, T. V.; Subair, N.; Purushothaman, E.

    2017-06-01

    Biodegradation behavior of styrene butadiene rubber composites reinforced with natural filler, coconut shell powder (CSP), with different filler loadings were carried out under soil burial conditions for three to six months. The extent of biodegradation of the composites was evaluated through weight loss, tensile strength and hardness measurements. It was observed that the permanence of the composites was remarkably dependent on filler modification, size of the filler particle and filler content. Composites containing silane modified filler were found to be more resistant to attack by the microbes present in the soil. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, Young's modulus and hardness were decreased after soil burial testing due to the microbial attack onto the samples.

  13. Synthesis of amphipathic block copolymers based on polyisobutylene and polyoxyethylene and their application in emulsion polymerization

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sar, B.

    1992-12-31

    Polymer colloids stabilized by polymeric surfactants are of great interest both commercially and academically. It has been found that these materials enhance latex stabilization in a number of applications. The polymeric surfactants are amphipathic block and graft copolymers containing both hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties. The current study involved the synthesis of a series of amphipathic triblock copolymers, polyisobutylene-block-polyoxyethylene-block-polyisobutylene (PIB-b-POE-b-PIB), for use in the emulsion polymerization of styrene (STY), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and vinyl acetate (VAc). The stabilizing effectiveness of these triblock copolymers was studied as a function of their blocklength. When the molecular weight of the POE center block wasmore » changed from M{sub n} = 2,000 to 20,000 g/mole, stable lattices were obtained in emulsion polymerization with MMA, STY, and VAc as the monomers. In all cases, the polymerization rates remained constant, while the number of particles/volume decreased with increasing POE chain length. When the molecular weight of the PIB end blocks was changed from M{sub n} = 400 to 2,600 g/mole keeping the molecular weight of the POE center block constant at M{sub n} = 20,000 g/mole, the poly(methyl methacrylate) and poly(vinyl acetate) lattices exhibited similar behavior, i.e., the number of particles and particle sizes remained the same, but the rate of polymerization reached a maximum at 87 wt% POE content. In the case of poly(styrene) both the rate of polymerization and the number of particles remained constant. The emulsion polymerization of other monomers such as butadiene, acrylonitrile, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, and butyl acrylate was carried out by using one triblock copolymer, i.e., PIB(400)-b-POE (8,000)-b-PIB-(400). Stable lattices were also formed in all cases.« less

  14. Compatibilization of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer/poly(ethylene glycol-co-1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol terephthalate) blend: effect on morphology, interface, mechanical properties and hydrophilicity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Tingting; Zhang, Jun

    2018-04-01

    The compatibilization of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer (ABS) and poly(ethylene glycol-co-1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol terephthalate) (PETG) blends was first investigated. Styrene-acrylonitrile-glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer (SAG) and ABS grafted with maleic anhydride (ABS-g-MAH) were selected as reactive compatibilizers for the ABS/PETG blends. The compatibilization effect was assessed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and mechanical properties. And the effect of compatibilizers on the hydrophilicity of the blends was evaluated as well. SEM observation and DSC analysis confirmed that both SAG and ABS-g-MAH compatibilizers could improve the compatibility between ABS and PETG, leading to an improvement in toughness of the blend. The possible cause for the improvement of compatibility was the reaction between compatibilizers and PETG, which could in situ turn out compatibilizers that acted as interfacial agents to enhance the interfacial interaction in the blend. Especially, the addition of SAG significantly decreased the dispersion phase size and the interface voids almost disappeared. Since the in situ reactions between the epoxy groups of SAG and the end groups (sbnd COOH or sbnd OH) of PETG generated PETG-co-SAG copolymer at the blend interface, and the cross-linking reactions proposed to take place between SAG and the PETG-co-SAG copolymer, acting as compatibilizer, could significantly increase the interfacial interaction. The addition of SAG also enhanced the stiffness of the blends. Moreover, the addition of SAG made the blend more hydrophilic, whereas the addition of ABS-g-MAH made the blend more hydrophobic. Therefore, SAG was a good compatibilizer for the ABS/PETG blends and could simultaneously provide the blends with toughening, stiffening and hydrophilic effects.

  15. Thermotropic properties of phosphatidylcholine nanodiscs bounded by styrene-maleic acid copolymers.

    PubMed

    Dominguez Pardo, J J; Dörr, J M; Renne, M F; Ould-Braham, T; Koorengevel, M C; van Steenbergen, M J; Killian, J A

    2017-11-01

    Styrene-maleic acid copolymers (SMA) have been gaining interest in the field of membrane research due to their ability to solubilize membranes into nanodics. The SMA molecules act as an amphipathic belt that surrounds the nanodiscs, whereby the hydrophobic styrene moieties can insert in between the lipid acyl chains. Here we used SMA variants with different styrene-to-maleic acid ratio (i.e. 2:1, 3:1 and 4:1) to investigate how lipid packing in the nanodiscs is affected by the presence of the polymers and how it depends on polymer composition. This was done by analyzing the thermotropic properties of a series of saturated phosphatidylcholines in nanodiscs using laurdan fluorescence and differential scanning calorimetry. In all cases it was found that the temperature of the main phase transition (T m ) of the lipids in the nanodiscs is downshifted and that its cooperativity is strongly reduced as compared to the situation in vesicles. These effects were least pronounced for lipids in nanodiscs bounded by SMA 2:1. Unexpected trends were observed for the calorimetric enthalpy of the transition, suggesting that the polymer itself contributes, possibly by rearranging around the nanodiscs when the lipids adopt the fluid phase. Finally, distinct differences in morphology were observed for nanodiscs at relatively high polymer concentrations, depending on the SMA variant used. Overall, the results suggest that the extent of preservation of native thermodynamic properties of the lipids as well as the stability of the nanodiscs at high polymer concentrations is better for SMA 2:1 than for the other SMA variants. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Anionic polymerization of p-(2,2'-diphenylethyl)styrene and applications to graft copolymers.

    PubMed

    Huang, Minglu; Han, Bingyong; Lu, Jianmin; Yang, Wantai; Fu, Zhifeng

    2017-01-01

    Well-controlled anionic polymerization of an initiator-functionalized monomer, p -(2,2'-diphenylethyl)styrene (DPES), was achieved for the first time. The polymerization was performed in a mixed solvent of cyclohexane and tetrahydrofuran (THF) at 40 °C with n -BuLi as initiator. When the volume ratio of cyclohexane to THF was 20, the anionic polymerization of DPES showed living polymerization characteristics, and well-defined block copolymer PDPES- b -PS was successfully synthesized. Furthermore, radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in the presence of PDPES effectively afforded a graft copolymer composed of a polystyrene backbone and poly(methyl methacrylate) branches. The designation of analogous monomers and polymers was of great significance to synthesize a variety of sophisticated copolymer and functionalize polymer materials.

  17. Gradient structure-induced temperature responsiveness in styrene/methyl methacrylate gradient copolymers micelles.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Chao; Huang, Haiying; He, Tianbai

    2014-02-01

    In this work, micelles are formed by gradient copolymer of styrene and methyl methacrylate in acetone-water mixture and their temperature responsiveness is investigated in a narrow range near room temperature. Three different kinds of structural transitions could be induced by temperature: unimers to micelle transition, shrinkage/stretching of micelles, and morphological transition from spherical micelles to vesicles. In addition, a model analysis on the interface of gradient copolymer micelle is made to better understand these phenomena. It is found that both position and composition of the interface could alter in response to the change in temperature. According to the experiments and model analysis, it is proposed that temperature responsiveness might be an intrinsic and universal property of gradient copolymer micelles, which only originates from the gradient structure. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  18. Preparation, characterization and conductivity study of nitro-mercurated styrene butadiene rubber/silver doped zinc oxide nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anilkumar, T.; Naik, Adarsh Ajith; Ramesan, M. T.

    2017-06-01

    Here we report the preparation of nitromercurated styrene butadiene rubber (NMSBR)/silver doped zinc oxide nanocomposite by inexpensive and ecofriendly two roll mill mixing. The composites were characterized by UV, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TGA and conductivity measurements. UV and FTIR spectrum indicated the interfacial interaction between the polymer and nanoparticles.XRD and SEM images showed the uniform arrangement of nanoparticles within the macromolecular chain. TGA study indicated the better thermal resistance of the composite. The dielectric properties and AC conductivity ofnanocomposites were much greater than nitromercurated SBR and they may be used as multifunctional materials for nanoelectronic devices.

  19. Computational Design of Biomimetic Gels With Properties of Human Tissues

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-12-01

    poly(styrene-block- isoprene -block-styrene) copolymer or SIS in the I-selective solvent has been chosen as a model triblock copolymer for this study...our model. A A B B B RC Fig. 2. Schematic representation of A1B3A1 triblock copolymer mapped on DPD model. Poly(styrene-block- isoprene -block...Pa making G 2.25 times higher for c changes from 0.16 to 0.33 (density of styrene and isoprene blocks are taken to be 1.04 and 0.913 g/cm3

  20. Synthesis and properties study of the uniform nonspherical styrene/methacrylic acid copolymer latex particles.

    PubMed

    Wang, Wenqin; Ren, Guohong; Yang, Yanqiong; Cai, Wujin; Chen, Tao

    2015-01-13

    A facile method to prepare the nonspherical amphiphilic random copolymer of poly(styrene-co-methacrylic acid) (poly(St-co-PMAA)) latex particles with well-defined shapes and high yields by one-step batch emulsifier-free polymerization was demonstrated. In our strategy, only varying the molar ratio of styrene (St) to methacrylic acid (MAA), no seed-particles, no cross-linker, and no multistep control procedures were needed. Due to the presence of carboxyl groups on the surface of (poly(St-co-PMAA) latex particles, these latex particles can be used as templates for fabricating core-shell nonspherical functional materials, such as poly(St-co-PMAA)@SiO2 and poly(St-co-PMAA)@polypyrrole). The corresponding nonspherical hollow structures (SiO2 and polypyrrole) could be obtained after removal of the templates. In addition, poly(St-co-PMAA) latex particles exhibit interesting morphologies in ethanol.

  1. Synthesis and Adsorption Properties of 4-Vinylpyridine and Styrene Copolymer In Situ Immobilized on Silica Surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yanovska, E. S.; Vretik, L. O.; Nikolaeva, O. A.; Polonska, Y.; Sternik, D.; Kichkiruk, O. Yu.

    2017-03-01

    Copolymer of 4-vinylpyridine with styrene was in situ immobilized on silica gel surface via the heterogeneous radical polymerization. Anchorage of the copolymer on the surface layer was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. The quantity of copolymer on the silica gel surface was evaluated as 25.73 wt.% by TG and DSC-MS analysis. "Islet" location of polymer layer on the silica surface was confirmed by the scanning electron microscopy. A high adsorption activity of silica gel with immobilized copolymer towards microquantitatives of Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), Fe(III), and Ni(II) ions in steady state conditions as well as of Ni(II) ions in dynamic regime was found.

  2. Synthesis and Adsorption Properties of 4-Vinylpyridine and Styrene Copolymer In Situ Immobilized on Silica Surface.

    PubMed

    Yanovska, E S; Vretik, L O; Nikolaeva, O A; Polonska, Y; Sternik, D; Kichkiruk, O Yu

    2017-12-01

    Copolymer of 4-vinylpyridine with styrene was in situ immobilized on silica gel surface via the heterogeneous radical polymerization. Anchorage of the copolymer on the surface layer was confirmed by IR spectroscopy. The quantity of copolymer on the silica gel surface was evaluated as 25.73 wt.% by TG and DSC-MS analysis. "Islet" location of polymer layer on the silica surface was confirmed by the scanning electron microscopy. A high adsorption activity of silica gel with immobilized copolymer towards microquantitatives of Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), Fe(III), and Ni(II) ions in steady state conditions as well as of Ni(II) ions in dynamic regime was found.

  3. Initiation precursors and initiators in laser-induced copolymerization of styrene and maleic anhydride in acetone

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Miner, Gilda A.; Meador, Willard E.; Chang, C. Ken

    1990-01-01

    The initiation step of photopolymerized styrene/maleic anhydride copolymer was investigated at 365 nm. UV absorption measurements provide decisive evidence that the styrene/maleic anhydride charge transfer complex is the sole absorbing species; however, key laser experiments suggest intermediate reactions lead to a monoradical initiating species. A mechanism for the photoinitiation step of the copolymer is proposed.

  4. DISPERSION POLYMERIZATION OF STYRENE IN SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE UTILIZING RANDOM COPOLYMERS INCLUDING FLUORINATED ACRYLATE FOR PREPARING MICRON-SIZE POLYSTYRENE PARTICLES. (R826115)

    EPA Science Inventory

    The dispersion polymerization of styrene in supercritical CO2 utilizing CO2-philic random copolymers was investigated. The resulting high yield of polystyrene particles in the micron-size range was formed using various random copolymers as stabilizers. The p...

  5. Fracture morphologies of carbon-black-loaded SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber) subjected to low-cycle, high-stress fatigue. [Styrene-butadiene rubber

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Goldberg, A.; Lesuer, D.R.; Patt, J.

    Experimental results, together with an analytical model, related to the loss in tensile strength of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) loaded with carbon black (CB) that had been subjected to low-cycle, high-stress fatigue tests were presented in a prior paper. The drop in tensile strength relative to that of a virgin sample was considered to be a measure of damage induced during the fatigue test. The present paper is a continuation of this study dealing with the morphological interpretations of the fractured surfaces, whereby the cyclic-tearing behavior, resulting in the damage, is related to the test and material parameters. It was foundmore » that failure is almost always initiated in the bulk of a sample at a material flaw. The size and definition of a flaw increase with an increase in carbon-black loading. Initiation flaw sites are enveloped by fan-shaped or penny-shaped regions which develop during cycling. The size and morphology of a fatigue-tear region appears to be independent of the fatigue load or the extent of the damage (strength loss). By contrast, either an increase in cycling load or an increase in damage at constant load increases the definition of the fatigue-region morphology for all formulations of carbon-black. On the finest scale, the morphology can be described in terms of tearing of individual groups of rubber strands, collapsing to form a cell-like structure. 18 refs., 13 figs.« less

  6. Fabrication of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene Nanostructures with Anodic Alumina Oxide Templates, Characterization and Biofilm Development Test for Staphylococcus epidermidis

    PubMed Central

    Desrousseaux, Camille; Cueff, Régis; Aumeran, Claire; Garrait, Ghislain; Mailhot-Jensen, Bénédicte; Traoré, Ousmane; Sautou, Valérie

    2015-01-01

    Medical devices can be contaminated by microbial biofilm which causes nosocomial infections. One of the strategies for the prevention of such microbial adhesion is to modify the biomaterials by creating micro or nanofeatures on their surface. This study aimed (1) to nanostructure acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), a polymer composing connectors in perfusion devices, using Anodic Alumina Oxide templates, and to control the reproducibility of this process; (2) to characterize the physico-chemical properties of the nanostructured surfaces such as wettability using captive-bubble contact angle measurement technique; (3) to test the impact of nanostructures on Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilm development. Fabrication of Anodic Alumina Oxide molds was realized by double anodization in oxalic acid. This process was reproducible. The obtained molds present hexagonally arranged 50 nm diameter pores, with a 100 nm interpore distance and a length of 100 nm. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene nanostructures were successfully prepared using a polymer solution and two melt wetting methods. For all methods, the nanopicots were obtained but inside each sample their length was different. One method was selected essentially for industrial purposes and for better reproducibility results. The flat ABS surface presents a slightly hydrophilic character, which remains roughly unchanged after nanostructuration, the increasing apparent wettability observed in that case being explained by roughness effects. Also, the nanostructuration of the polymer surface does not induce any significant effect on Staphylococcus epidermidis adhesion. PMID:26284922

  7. Styrene-spaced copolymers including anthraquinone and β-O-4 lignin model units: synthesis, characterization and reactivity under alkaline pulping conditions.

    PubMed

    Megiatto, Jackson D; Cazeils, Emmanuel; Ham-Pichavant, Frédérique; Grelier, Stéphane; Gardrat, Christian; Castellan, Alain

    2012-05-14

    A series of random copoly(styrene)s has been synthesized via radical polymerization of functionalized anthraquinone (AQ) and β-O-4 lignin model monomers. The copolymers were designed to have a different number of styrene spacer groups between the AQ and β-O-4 lignin side chains aiming at investigating the distance effects on AQ/β-O-4 electron transfer mechanisms. A detailed molecular characterization, including techniques such as size exclusion chromatography, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and (1)H, (13)C, (31)P NMR and UV-vis spectroscopies, afforded quantitative information about the composition of the copolymers as well as the average distribution of the AQ and β-O-4 groups in the macromolecular structures. TGA and DSC thermal analysis have indicated that the copolymers were thermally stable under regular pulping conditions, revealing the inertness of the styrene polymer backbone in the investigation of electron transfer mechanisms. Alkaline pulping experiments showed that close contact between the redox active side chains in the copolymers was fundamental for an efficient degradation of the β-O-4 lignin model units, highlighting the importance of electron transfer reactions in the lignin degradation mechanisms catalyzed by AQ. In the absence of glucose, AQ units oxidized phenolic β-O-4 lignin model parts, mainly by electron transfer leading to vanillin as major product. By contrast, in presence of glucose, anthrahydroquinone units (formed by reduction of AQ) reduced the quinone-methide units (issued by dehydration of phenolic β-O-4 lignin model part) mainly by electron transfer leading to guaiacol as major product. Both processes were distance dependent.

  8. 21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... chapter as Type VI-B under conditions for use E, F, or G described in table 2 of § 176.170(c) of this... copol-ymer is extracted with 250 milliliters spectral grade n-heptane at reflux temperature for 2 hours. (e) Accelerated extraction end test. The modified copolymer shall yield acrylonitrile monomer not in...

  9. 21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... chapter as Type VI-B under conditions for use E, F, or G described in table 2 of § 176.170(c) of this... copol-ymer is extracted with 250 milliliters spectral grade n-heptane at reflux temperature for 2 hours. (e) Accelerated extraction end test. The modified copolymer shall yield acrylonitrile monomer not in...

  10. 21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... chapter as Type VI-B under conditions for use E, F, or G described in table 2 of § 176.170(c) of this... copol-ymer is extracted with 250 milliliters spectral grade n-heptane at reflux temperature for 2 hours. (e) Accelerated extraction end test. The modified copolymer shall yield acrylonitrile monomer not in...

  11. Azidated Ether-Butadiene-Ether Block Copolymers as Binders for Solid Propellants

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cappello, Miriam; Lamia, Pietro; Mura, Claudio; Polacco, Giovanni; Filippi, Sara

    2016-07-01

    Polymeric binders for solid propellants are usually based on hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), which does not contribute to the overall energy output. Azidic polyethers represent an interesting alternative but may have poorer mechanical properties. Polybutadiene-polyether copolymers may combine the advantages of both. Four different ether-butadiene-ether triblock copolymers were prepared and azidated starting from halogenated and/or tosylated monomers using HTPB as initiator. The presence of the butadiene block complicates the azidation step and reduces the storage stability of the azidic polymer. Nevertheless, the procedure allows modifying the binder properties by varying the type and lengths of the energetic blocks.

  12. Butadiene-Isoprene Block Copolymers and Their Hydrogenated Derivatives.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-04-01

    polyethylene, LDPE. The crystallinity, density and AHf for all of the block copolymers were found to be linearly de - pendent on HB content indicating...etc. It is known for example, that carbanions can exist in "tight", "loose", or even "free" structures as a function of counterion and solvent. (5,6...is then observed for the styrene segment. Thus in these systems , there is an apparent "reversal of reactivity" of styrene and the diene, since for the

  13. Thermal Stability and Flammability of Styrene-Butadiene Rubber-Based (SBR) Ceramifiable Composites

    PubMed Central

    Anyszka, Rafał; Bieliński, Dariusz M.; Pędzich, Zbigniew; Rybiński, Przemysław; Imiela, Mateusz; Siciński, Mariusz; Zarzecka-Napierała, Magdalena; Gozdek, Tomasz; Rutkowski, Paweł

    2016-01-01

    Ceramifiable styrene-butadiene (SBR)-based composites containing low-softening-point-temperature glassy frit promoting ceramification, precipitated silica, one of four thermally stable refractory fillers (halloysite, calcined kaolin, mica or wollastonite) and a sulfur-based curing system were prepared. Kinetics of vulcanization and basic mechanical properties were analyzed and added as Supplementary Materials. Combustibility of the composites was measured by means of cone calorimetry. Their thermal properties were analyzed by means of thermogravimetry and specific heat capacity determination. Activation energy of thermal decomposition was calculated using the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa method. Finally, compression strength of the composites after ceramification was measured and their micromorphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy. The addition of a ceramification-facilitating system resulted in the lowering of combustibility and significant improvement of the thermal stability of the composites. Moreover, the compression strength of the mineral structure formed after ceramification is considerably high. The most promising refractory fillers for SBR-based ceramifiable composites are mica and halloysite. PMID:28773726

  14. Preparation and properties of carboxylated styrene-butadiene rubber/cellulose nanocrystals composites.

    PubMed

    Cao, Xiaodong; Xu, Chuanhui; Liu, Yuhong; Chen, Yukun

    2013-01-30

    A series of carboxylated styrene-butadiene rubber (XSBR)/cellulose nanocrystals (CNs) latex composites were successfully prepared. The vulcanization process, morphology, dynamic viscoelastic behavior, dynamic mechanical property, thermal and mechanical performance of the XSBR/CNs composites were investigated in detail. The results revealed that CNs were dispersed uniformly in the XSBR matrix and formed a strong filler-filler network. The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the glass transition temperature (T(g)) of XSBR matrix was shifted from 48.45 to 50.64 °C with 3 phr CNs, but decreased from 50.64 to 46.28 °C when further increasing CNs content up to 15 phr. The composites exhibited a significant enhancement in tensile strength (from 16.9 to 24.1 MPa) and tear strength (from 43.5 to 65.2 MPa) with loading CNs from 0 to 15 phr. In addition, the thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the temperature at 5% weight loss of the XSBR/CNs composites decreased slightly with an increase of the CNs content. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Synthesis of styrene/isoprene/butadiene integrated rubber with wide glass transition temperature by reactive extrusion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Tianhua; Zheng, Anna; Zhan, Pengfei; Shi, Han; Li, Xiang; Guan, Yong; Wei, Dafu

    2018-05-01

    In this work, styrene/isoprene/butadiene integrated rubber (SIBR) was synthesized with n-butyllithium as the initiator and tetrahydrofuran as structure modifier in a co-rotating intermeshing twin-screw extruder. The content of diene in these terpolymers reached a surprising 70 wt% by feeding the monomers in two different sites of the twin-screw extruder. 1H-NMR, GPC and TEM results showed that the molecular structures of terpolymers changed with the variation of feeding site. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the vulcanized SIBR showed that the terpolymer had a wide glass transition region, which assured an excellent combination of high antiskid properties and low rolling resistance. Different from traditional solution polymerization, the present work provides a green approach to prepare the SIBR via bulk polymerization without solvent.

  16. Characterization of free volume during vulcanization of styrene butadiene rubber by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy and dynamic mechanical test.

    PubMed

    Marzocca, A J; Cerveny, S; Salgueiro, W; Somoza, A; Gonzalez, L

    2002-02-01

    An experimental investigation was performed to study the effect on the free volume of the advance of the cross-linking reaction in a copolymer of styrene butadiene rubber by sulfur vulcanization. The dynamic modulus and loss tangent were evaluated over samples cured for different times at 433 K by dynamic mechanical tests over a range of frequencies between 5 and 80 Hz at temperatures between 200 and 300 K. Using the William-Landel-Ferry relationship, master curves were obtained at a reference temperature of 298 K and the coefficients c(0)(1) and c(0)(2) were evaluated. From these parameters the dependence of the free volume on the cure time is obtained. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was also used to estimate the size and number density of free volume sites in the material. The spectra were analyzed in terms of continuous distributions of free volume size. The results suggest an increase of the lower free volume size when cross linking takes place. Both techniques give similar results for the dependence of free volume on the time of cure of the polymer.

  17. Isoprene-styrene copolymer elastomer and tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate mixtures for soft prosthetic applications.

    PubMed

    Nazhat, S N; Parker, S; Patel, M P; Braden, M

    2001-09-01

    Novel elastomer/methacrylate systems have been developed for potential soft prosthetic applications. Mixtures of varying compositions of an isoprene-styrene copolymer elastomer and tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate (SIS/THFMA) formed one-gel systems and were heat cured with a peroxide initiator. The blends were characterised in terms of sorption in deionised water and simulated body fluids (SBF), tensile properties and viscoelastic parameters of storage modulus and tan delta, as well as glass transition temperatures using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). DMA data gave two distinct peaks in tan delta, a lower temperature transition due to the isoprene phase in SIS and one at high temperature thought to be a combination of THFMA and the styrene phase in SIS. The tensile data showed a clear phase inversion within the mid range compositions changing from plastic to elastomeric behaviour. The sorption studies in deionised water showed a two stage uptake with an initial Fickian region that was linear to t 1/2 followed by a droplet growth/clustering system. The slope of the linear region was dependent on the composition ratio. The extent of overall uptake was osmotically dependent as all materials equilibrated at a much lower uptake in SBF. The diffusion coefficients were found to be concentration dependent.

  18. Evaluate styrene production

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hagopian, C.R.; Lewis, P.J.; McDonald, J.J.

    1983-02-01

    Improvements and innovations in styrene production since 1966 are outlined. Rigorous process models are attributed to the changes. Such models are used to evaluate the effects of changing raw material costs, utility costs, and available catalyst choices. The process model can also evaluate the best operating configuration and catalyst choice for a plant. All specified innovations are incorporated in the Mobil/Badger ethylbenzene and the Cosden/Badger styrene processes (both of which are schematicized). Badger's training programs are reviewed. Badger's Styrenics Business Team converts information into plant design basis. A reaction model with input derived from isothermal and adiabatic pilot plant unitsmore » is at the heart of complete computer simulation of ethylbenzene and styrene processes.« less

  19. Ototoxic effects of occupational exposure to styrene and co-exposure to styrene and noise.

    PubMed

    Sliwińska-Kowalska, Mariola; Zamyslowska-Szmytke, Ewa; Szymczak, Wieslaw; Kotylo, Piotr; Fiszer, Marta; Wesolowski, Wiktor; Pawlaczyk-Luszczynska, Malgorzata

    2003-01-01

    Ototoxicity of styrene and the synergistic action of styrene and noise have been shown in rats. The respective data in humans are scarce and equivocal. This study evaluated the effects of occupational exposure to styrene and combined exposures to styrene and noise on hearing. The study group, comprised of 290-yacht yard and plastic factory workers, was exposed to a mixture of organic solvents, having styrene as its main compound. The reference group, totaling 223 subjects, included (1) white-collar workers, exposed neither to solvents nor noise and (2) metal factory workers, exposed exclusively to noise. All subjects were assessed by means of a detailed questionnaire and underwent otorhinolaryngological and audiometric examinations. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed almost a 4-fold (or 3.9; 95% CI = 2.4-6.2) increase in the odds of developing hearing loss related to styrene exposure. The factors adjusted for were: age, gender, current occupational exposure to noise, and exposure to noise in the past. In cases of the combined exposures to styrene and noise, the odds ratios were two to three times higher than the respective values for styrene-only and noise-only exposed subjects. The mean hearing thresholds--adjusted for age, gender, and exposure to noise--were significantly higher in the solvent-exposed group than in the unexposed reference group at all frequencies tested. A positive linear relationship existed between an averaged working life exposure to styrene concentration and a hearing threshold at the frequencies of 6 and 8 kHz. This study provides the epidemiological evidence that occupational exposure to styrene is related to an increased risk of hearing loss. Combined exposures to noise and styrene seem to be more ototoxic than exposure to noise alone.

  20. Radiation crosslinking of styrene-butadiene rubber containing waste tire rubber and polyfunctional monomers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yasin, Tariq; Khan, Sara; Shafiq, Muhammad; Gill, Rohama

    2015-01-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of polyfunctional monomers (PFMs) and absorbed dose on the final characteristics of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) mixed with waste tire rubber (WTR). A series of SBR/WTR blends were prepared by varying the ratios of WTR in the presence of PFMs, namely trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA) and trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) and crosslinked using gamma rays. The physicochemical characteristics of the prepared blends were investigated. It was observed that tensile strength, hardness and gel content of the blends increased with absorbed dose while the blends containing TMPTA showed higher tensile strength, gel content and thermal stability as compared to the blends containing TMPTMA. Higher thermal stability was observed in the blends which were crosslinked by radiation as compared to the blends crosslinked by sulfur. These blends exhibited higher rate of swelling in organic solvents, whereas negligible swelling was observed in acidic and basic environment.

  1. Performance of asphaltic concrete incorporating styrene butadiene rubber subjected to varying aging condition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Salah, Faisal Mohammed; Jaya, Ramadhansyah Putra; Mohamed, Azman; Hassan, Norhidayah Abdul; Rosni, Nurul Najihah Mad; Mohamed, Abdullahi Ali; Agussabti

    2017-12-01

    The influence of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) on asphaltic concrete properties at different aging conditions was presented in this study. These aging conditions were named as un-aged, short-term, and long-term aging. The conventional asphalt binder of penetration grade 60/70 was used in this work. Four different levels of SBR addition were employed (i.e., 0 %, 1 %, 3 %, and 5 % by binder weight). Asphalt concrete mixes were prepared at selected optimum asphalt content (5 %). The performance was evaluated based on Marshall Stability, resilient modulus, and dynamic creep tests. Results indicated the improving stability and permanent deformation characteristics that the mixes modified with SBR polymer have under aging conditions. The result also showed that the stability, resilient modulus, and dynamic creep tests have the highest rates compared to the short-term aging and un-aged samples. Thus, the use of 5 % SBR can produce more durable asphalt concrete mixtures with better serviceability.

  2. Viscoelastic Properties, Ionic Conductivity, and Materials Design Considerations for Poly(styrene-b-ethylene oxide-b-styrene)-Based Ion Gel Electrolytes

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhang, Sipei; Lee, Keun Hyung; Sun, Jingru

    2013-03-07

    The viscoelastic properties and ionic conductivity of ion gels based on the self-assembly of a poly(styrene-b-ethylene oxide-b-styrene) (SOS) triblock copolymer (M{sub n,S} = 3 kDa, M{sub n,O} = 35 kDa) in the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide ([EMI][TFSA]) were investigated over the composition range of 10-50 wt % SOS and the temperature range of 25-160 C. The poly(styrene) (PS) end-blocks associate into micelles, whereas the poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) midblocks are well-solvated by this ionic liquid. The ion gel with 10 wt % SOS melts at 54 C, with the longest relaxation time exhibiting a similar temperature dependence to that of themore » viscosity of bulk PS. However, the actual values of the gel relaxation time are more than 4 orders of magnitude larger than the relaxation time of bulk PS. This is attributed to the thermodynamic penalty of pulling PS end-blocks through the PEO/[EMI][TFSA] matrix. Ion gels with 20-50 wt % SOS do not melt and show two plateaus in the storage modulus over the temperature and frequency ranges measured. The one at higher frequencies is that of an entangled network of PEO strands with PS cross-links; the modulus displays a quadratic dependence on polymer weight fraction and agrees with the prediction of linear viscoelastic theory assuming half of the PEO chains are elastically effective. The frequency that separates the two plateaus, {omega}{sub c}, reflects the time scale of PS end-block pull-out. The other plateau at lower frequencies is that of a congested micelle solution with PS cores and PEO coronas, which has a power law dependence on domain spacing similar to diblock melts. The ionic conductivity of the ion gels is compared to PEO homopolymer solutions at similar polymer concentrations; the conductivity is reduced by a factor of 2.1 or less, decreases with increasing PS volume fraction, and follows predictions based on a simple obstruction model. Our collective results allow the

  3. Separation of Poly(styrene-block-t-butyl methacrylate) Copolymers by Various Liquid Chromatography Techniques

    PubMed Central

    Šmigovec Ljubič, Tina; Pahovnik, David; Žigon, Majda; Žagar, Ema

    2012-01-01

    The separation of a mixture of three poly(styrene-block-t-butyl methacrylate) copolymers (PS-b-PtBMA), consisting of polystyrene (PS) blocks of similar length and t-butyl methacrylate (PtBMA) blocks of different lengths, was performed using various chromatographic techniques, that is, a gradient liquid chromatography on reversed-phase (C18 and C8) and normal-phase columns, a liquid chromatography under critical conditions for polystyrene as well as a fully automated two-dimensional liquid chromatography that separates block copolymers by chemical composition in the first dimension and by molar mass in the second dimension. The results show that a partial separation of the mixture of PS-b-PtBMA copolymers can be achieved only by gradient liquid chromatography on reversed-phase columns. The coelution of the two block copolymers is ascribed to a much shorter PtBMA block length, compared to the PS block, as well as a small difference in the length of the PtBMA block in two of these copolymers, which was confirmed by SEC-MALS and NMR spectroscopy. PMID:22489207

  4. Styrene exposure and risk of cancer

    PubMed Central

    Huff, James; Infante, Peter F.

    2011-01-01

    Styrene is widely used in the manufacture of synthetic rubber, resins, polyesters and plastics. Styrene and the primary metabolite styrene-7,8-oxide are genotoxic and carcinogenic. Long-term chemical carcinogenesis bioassays showed that styrene caused lung cancers in several strains of mice and mammary cancers in rats and styrene-7,8-oxide caused tumours of the forestomach in rats and mice and of the liver in mice. Subsequent epidemiologic studies found styrene workers had increased mortality or incidences of lymphohematopoietic cancers (leukaemia or lymphoma or all), with suggestive evidence for pancreatic and esophageal tumours. No adequate human studies are available for styrene-7,8-oxide although this is the primary and active epoxide metabolite of styrene. Both are genotoxic and form DNA adducts in humans. PMID:21724974

  5. Predictors of occupational exposure to styrene and styrene-7,8-oxide in the reinforced plastics industry.

    PubMed

    Serdar, B; Tornero-Velez, R; Echeverria, D; Nylander-French, L A; Kupper, L L; Rappaport, S M

    2006-10-01

    To identify demographic and work related factors that predict blood levels of styrene and styrene-7,8-oxide (SO) in the fibreglass reinforced plastics (FRP) industry. Personal breathing-zone air samples and whole blood samples were collected repeatedly from 328 reinforced plastics workers in the Unuted States between 1996 and 1999. Styrene and its major metabolite SO were measured in these samples. Multivariable linear regression analyses were applied to the subject-specific levels to explain the variation in exposure and biomarker levels. Exposure levels of styrene were approximately 500-fold higher than those of SO. Exposure levels of styrene and SO varied greatly among the types of products manufactured, with an 11-fold range of median air levels among categories for styrene and a 23-fold range for SO. Even after stratification by job title, median exposures of styrene and SO among laminators varied 14- and 31-fold across product categories. Furthermore, the relative proportions of exposures to styrene and SO varied among product categories. Multivariable regression analyses explained 70% and 63% of the variation in air levels of styrene and SO, respectively, and 72% and 34% of the variation in blood levels of styrene and SO, respectively. Overall, air levels of styrene and SO appear to have decreased substantially in this industry over the last 10-20 years in the US and were greatest among workers with the least seniority. As levels of styrene and SO in air and blood varied among product categories in the FRP industry, use of job title as a surrogate for exposure can introduce unpredictable measurement errors and can confound the relation between exposure and health outcomes in epidemiology studies. Also, inverse relations between the intensity of exposure to styrene and SO and years on the job suggest that younger workers with little seniority are typically exposed to higher levels of styrene and SO than their coworkers.

  6. 21 CFR 177.1830 - Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... components of plastic articles intended for use in contact with food, subject to the provisions of this... (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1830 Styrene-methyl methacrylate...

  7. 21 CFR 177.1830 - Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... components of plastic articles intended for use in contact with food, subject to the provisions of this... (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1830 Styrene-methyl methacrylate...

  8. 21 CFR 177.1830 - Styrene-methyl methacrylate copolymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... components of plastic articles intended for use in contact with food, subject to the provisions of this... (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1830 Styrene-methyl methacrylate...

  9. Fatigue Characteristics of 3D Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Padzi, M. M.; Bazin, M. M.; Muhamad, W. M. W.

    2017-11-01

    Recently, the use of 3D printer technology has become significant to industries, especially when involving the new product development. 3D printing is a technology, which produces the 3D product or prototype using a layer-by-layer technique. However, there becomes less research on the mechanical performance of the 3D printed component. In the present work, fatigue characteristics of 3D printed specimen have been studied. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) has been chosen as a material research due to its wide applications. Two types of specimen used, which is the 3D printing and moulding specimens. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) technique was used to produce the specimens. The dog bone shape part was produced based on ASTM D638 standard and the tensile test has been carried out to get the mechanical properties. Fatigue test was carried out at 40%, 60% and 80% of the tensile strength. The moulded part shows higher fatigue cycles compared to 3D printed part for all loading percentages. Fatigue lives for 40%, 60% and 80%, were 911, 2645 and 26948 cycles, respectively. The results indicated that 3D printed part has a lower fatigue life, which may not suitable for industrial applications. However, the 3D printed part could be improved by using various parameters and may be introduced in low strength application.

  10. Compression and Instrumented Indentation Measurements on Biomimetic Polymers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-09-01

    styrene- isoprene triblock copolymer gels are tested and compared using both macro-scale and micro-scale measurements. A methodology is presented to...at stress states and strain rates not available to bulk measurement equipment. In this work, a ballistic gelatin and two styrene- isoprene triblock

  11. Industrial-hygiene walk-through survey report of Copolymer Rubber and Chemical Corporation, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Industrywide study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Roberts, D.R.; Krishnan, E.R.

    1986-06-01

    A walk through survey was conducted at the Copolymer Rubber and Chemical Corporation, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The facility produces 465 million pounds of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and 15 million pounds of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) annually, requiring 120 million pounds of 1,3-butadiene. Of 470 employees, 143 were directly involved in reaction, recovery, and finishing operations, and were potentially exposed to 1,3-butadiene 8 hours per day.

  12. Design and testing of digitally manufactured paraffin Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene hybrid rocket motors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCulley, Jonathan M.

    This research investigates the application of additive manufacturing techniques for fabricating hybrid rocket fuel grains composed of porous Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene impregnated with paraffin wax. The digitally manufactured ABS substrate provides mechanical support for the paraffin fuel material and serves as an additional fuel component. The embedded paraffin provides an enhanced fuel regression rate while having no detrimental effect on the thermodynamic burn properties of the fuel grain. Multiple fuel grains with various ABS-to-Paraffin mass ratios were fabricated and burned with nitrous oxide. Analytical predictions for end-to-end motor performance and fuel regression are compared against static test results. Baseline fuel grain regression calculations use an enthalpy balance energy analysis with the material and thermodynamic properties based on the mean paraffin/ABS mass fractions within the fuel grain. In support of these analytical comparisons, a novel method for propagating the fuel port burn surface was developed. In this modeling approach the fuel cross section grid is modeled as an image with white pixels representing the fuel and black pixels representing empty or burned grid cells.

  13. Isolation and characterization of styrene metabolism genes from styrene-assimilating soil bacteria Rhodococcus sp. ST-5 and ST-10.

    PubMed

    Toda, Hiroshi; Itoh, Nobuya

    2012-01-01

    Styrene metabolism genes were isolated from styrene-assimilating bacteria Rhodococcus sp. ST-5 and ST-10. Strain ST-5 had a gene cluster containing four open reading frames which encoded styrene degradation enzymes. The genes showed high similarity to styABCD of Pseudomonas sp. Y2. On the other hand, strain ST-10 had only two genes which encoded styrene monooxygenase and flavin oxidoreductase (styAB). Escherichia coli transformants possessing the sty genes of strains ST-5 and ST-10 produced (S)-styrene oxide from styrene, indicating that these genes function as styrene degradation enzymes. Metabolite analysis by resting-cell reaction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that strain ST-5 converts styrene to phenylacetaldehyde via styrene oxide by styrene oxide isomerase (styC) reaction. On the other hand, strain ST-10 lacked this enzyme, and thus accumulated styrene oxide as an intermediate. HPLC analysis showed that styrene oxide was spontaneously isomerized to phenylacetaldehyde by chemical reaction. The produced phenylacetaldehyde was converted to phenylacetic acid (PAA) in strain ST-10 as well as in strain ST-5. Furthermore, phenylacetic acid was converted to phenylacetyl-CoA by the catalysis of phenylacetate-CoA ligase in strains ST-5 and ST-10. This study proposes possible styrene metabolism pathways in Rhodococcus sp. strains ST-5 and ST-10. Copyright © 2011 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Controlling sub-microdomain structure in microphase-ordered block copolymers and their nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bowman, Michelle Kathleen

    Block copolymers exhibit a wealth of morphologies that continue to find ubiquitous use in a diverse variety of mature and emergent (nano)technologies, such as photonic crystals, integrated circuits, pharmaceutical encapsulents, fuel cells and separation membranes. While numerous studies have explored the effects of molecular confinement on such copolymers, relatively few have examined the sub-microdomain structure that develops upon modification of copolymer molecular architecture or physical incorporation of nanoscale objects. This work will address two relevant topics in this vein: (i) bidisperse brushes formed by single block copolymer molecules and (ii) copolymer nanocomposites formed by addition of molecular or nanoscale additives. In the first case, an isomorphic series of asymmetric poly(styrene-b -isoprene-b-styrene) (S1IS2) triblock copolymers of systematically varied chain length has been synthesized from a parent SI diblock copolymer. Small-angle x-ray scattering, coupled with dynamic rheology and self-consistent field theory (SCFT), reveals that the progressively grown S2 block initially resides in the I-rich matrix and effectively reduces the copolymer incompatibility until a critical length is reached. At this length, the S2 block co-locates with the S1 block so that the two blocks generate a bidisperse brush (insofar as the S1 and S2 lengths differ). This single-molecule analog to binary block copolymer blends affords unique opportunities for materials design at sub-microdomain length scales and provides insight into the transition from diblock to triblock copolymer (and thermoplastic elastomeric nature). In the second case, I explore the distribution of molecular and nanoscale additives in microphase-ordered block copolymers and demonstrate via SCFT that an interfacial excess, which depends strongly on additive concentration, selectivity and relative size, develops. These predictions are in agreement with experimental findings. Moreover, using a

  15. Interactions of poly(tert-butyl acrylate)-poly(styrene) diblock copolymers with lipids at the air-water interface.

    PubMed

    Mudgil, Poonam; Dennis, Gary R; Millar, Thomas J

    2006-08-29

    Diblock copolymers with hydrophilic poly(tert-butyl acrylate) (PtBA) and hydrophobic poly(styrene) (PS) blocks were synthesized with a view to use them as a surfactant in tear film for increasing the ocular comfort in dry eye syndrome. Interactions of six PtBA-PS copolymers with four important lipids found in the tear film, namely cholesterol, cholesteryl palmitate, dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylinositol, were studied at the air-water interface using a Langmuir trough. Thermodynamics of mixing of the copolymers and the lipids in the mixed monolayers was determined by calculating excess free energy of mixing. The diblock copolymers showed repulsive interactions with cholesteol and cholesteryl palmitate, near neutral interactions with dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine, and attractive interactions with phosphatidylinositol. The lipids interacted with the PS component of the copolymer. The results indicate that a copolymer with a small hydrophilic group and a big hydrophobic group can be a likely candidate for forming stable interactions with the lipids present in the tear film and hence increase the ocular comfort.

  16. 21 CFR 177.1050 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer modified with butadiene/styrene elastomer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... for use E, F, or G described in table 2 of § 176.170(c) of this chapter. (a) Identity. For the purpose... with 250 milliliters spectral grade n-heptane at reflux temperature for 2 hours. (e) Accelerated extraction end test. The modified copolymer shall yield acrylonitrile monomer not in excess of 0.4 ppm when...

  17. Enhancing mechanical and thermal properties of styrene-butadiene rubber/carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber blend by the usage of graphene oxide with diverse oxidation degrees

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xue, Xiaodong; Yin, Qing; Jia, Hongbing; Zhang, Xuming; Wen, Yanwei; Ji, Qingmin; Xu, Zhaodong

    2017-11-01

    Graphene oxide (GO) with various oxidation degrees were prepared through a modified Hummer's method by varying the dosage of oxidizing agent. Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)/carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR)/GO nanocomposites were fabricated by aqueous-phase mixing of GO colloidal dispersion with SBR latex and a small loading of XNBR latex, followed by co-coagulation. Effects of GO oxidation degree on the morphology, structure, mechanical and thermal properties of nanocomposites were thoroughly investigated. The results showed that the mechanical strength of nanocomposites were enhanced with the increase of oxidation degree of GO. Especially, when the weight ratio of KMnO4 to graphite was 15/5, the tensile strength, tear strength and thermal conductivity of SBR/XNBR/GO filled with 3 phr (parts per hundred rubber) GO increased by 255.3%, 141.5% and 22.8%, respectively, compared to those of neat SBR/XNBR blend. In addition, the thermal stability and the solvent resistance of the nanocomposites were also improved significantly. This work suggested that GO with higher oxidation degree could effectively improve the properties of SBR/XNBR blend.

  18. Recycling cycle of materials applied to acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/policarbonate blends with styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer addition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cândido, L. H. A.; Ferreira, D. B.; Júnior, W. Kindlein; Demori, R.; Mauler, R. S.

    2014-05-01

    The scope of this research is the recycling of polymers from mobile phones hulls discarded and the performance evaluation when they are submitted to the Recycling Cycle of Materials (RCM). The studied material was the ABS/PC blend in a 70/30 proportion. Different compositions were evaluated adding virgin material, recycled material and using the copolymer SBS as impact modifier. In order to evaluate the properties of material's composition, the samples were characterized by TGA, FTIR, SEM, IZOD impact strength and tensile strength tests. At the first stage, the presented results suggest the composition containing 25% of recycled material and 5% of SBS combines good mechanical performance to the higher content of recycled material and lower content of impact modifier providing major benefits to recycling plans. Five cycles (RCM) were applied in the second stage; they evidenced a decrease trend considering the impact strength. At first and second cycle the impact strength was higher than reference material (ABS/PC blend) and from the fourth cycle it was lower. The superiority impact strength in the first and second cycles can be attributed to impact modifier effect. The thermal tests and the spectrometry didn't show the presence of degradation process in the material and the TGA curves demonstrated the process stability. The impact surface of each sample was observed at SEM. The microstructures are not homogeneous presenting voids and lamellar appearance, although the outer surface presents no defects, demonstrating good moldability. The present work aims to assess the life cycle of the material from the successive recycling processes.

  19. Effects of surfactants on the properties of mortar containing styrene/methacrylate superplasticizer.

    PubMed

    Negim, El-Sayed; Kozhamzharova, Latipa; Khatib, Jamal; Bekbayeva, Lyazzat; Williams, Craig

    2014-01-01

    The physical and mechanical properties of mortar containing synthetic cosurfactants as air entraining agent are investigated. The cosurfactants consist of a combination of 2% dodecyl benzene sodium sulfonate (DBSS) and either 1.5% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or 1.5% polyoxyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (POE). Also these cosurfactants were used to prepare copolymers latex: styrene/butyl methacrylate (St/BuMA), styrene/methyl methacrylate (St/MMA), and styrene/glycidyl methacrylate (St/GMA), in order to study their effects on the properties of mortar. The properties of mortar examined included flow table, W/C ratio, setting time, water absorption, compressive strength, and combined water. The results indicate that the latex causes improvement in mortar properties compared with cosurfactants. Also polymer latex containing DBSS/POE is more effective than that containing DBSS/PVA.

  20. Effects of Surfactants on the Properties of Mortar Containing Styrene/Methacrylate Superplasticizer

    PubMed Central

    Negim, El-Sayed; Kozhamzharova, Latipa; Khatib, Jamal; Bekbayeva, Lyazzat; Williams, Craig

    2014-01-01

    The physical and mechanical properties of mortar containing synthetic cosurfactants as air entraining agent are investigated. The cosurfactants consist of a combination of 2% dodecyl benzene sodium sulfonate (DBSS) and either 1.5% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or 1.5% polyoxyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (POE). Also these cosurfactants were used to prepare copolymers latex: styrene/butyl methacrylate (St/BuMA), styrene/methyl methacrylate (St/MMA), and styrene/glycidyl methacrylate (St/GMA), in order to study their effects on the properties of mortar. The properties of mortar examined included flow table, W/C ratio, setting time, water absorption, compressive strength, and combined water. The results indicate that the latex causes improvement in mortar properties compared with cosurfactants. Also polymer latex containing DBSS/POE is more effective than that containing DBSS/PVA. PMID:24955426

  1. Membrane protein extraction and purification using styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymer: effect of variations in polymer structure.

    PubMed

    Morrison, Kerrie A; Akram, Aneel; Mathews, Ashlyn; Khan, Zoeya A; Patel, Jaimin H; Zhou, Chumin; Hardy, David J; Moore-Kelly, Charles; Patel, Roshani; Odiba, Victor; Knowles, Tim J; Javed, Masood-Ul-Hassan; Chmel, Nikola P; Dafforn, Timothy R; Rothnie, Alice J

    2016-12-01

    The use of styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymers to extract and purify transmembrane proteins, while retaining their native bilayer environment, overcomes many of the disadvantages associated with conventional detergent-based procedures. This approach has huge potential for the future of membrane protein structural and functional studies. In this investigation, we have systematically tested a range of commercially available SMA polymers, varying in both the ratio of styrene and maleic acid and in total size, for the ability to extract, purify and stabilise transmembrane proteins. Three different membrane proteins (BmrA, LeuT and ZipA), which vary in size and shape, were used. Our results show that several polymers, can be used to extract membrane proteins, comparably to conventional detergents. A styrene:maleic acid ratio of either 2:1 or 3:1, combined with a relatively small average molecular mass (7.5-10 kDa), is optimal for membrane extraction, and this appears to be independent of the protein size, shape or expression system. A subset of polymers were taken forward for purification, functional and stability tests. Following a one-step affinity purification, SMA 2000 was found to be the best choice for yield, purity and function. However, the other polymers offer subtle differences in size and sensitivity to divalent cations that may be useful for a variety of downstream applications. © 2016 The Author(s); published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

  2. Non-Classical Order in Sphere Forming ABAC Tetrablock Copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Jingwen; Sides, Scott; Bates, Frank

    2013-03-01

    AB diblock and ABC triblock copolymers have been studied thoroughly. ABAC tetrablock copolymers, representing the simplest variation from ABC triblock by breaking the molecular symmetry via inserting some of the A block in between B and C blocks, have been studied systematically in this research. The model system is poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene-b-ethylene oxide) (SISO) tetrablock terpolymers and the resulting morphologies were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatography, small-angle X-ray scattering, transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical spectroscopy. Two novel phases are first discovered in a single component block copolymers: hexagonally ordered spherical phase and tentatively identified dodecagonal quasicrystalline (QC) phase. In particular, the discovery of QC phase bridges the world of soft matters to that of metals. These unusual sets of morphologies will be discussed in the context of segregation under the constraints associated with the tetrablock molecular architecture. Theoretical calculations based on the assumption of Gaussian chain statistics provide valuable insights into the molecular configurations associated with these morphologies. the U.S. Department of Energy, Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Science and Engineering, under contract number DEAC05-00OR22725 with UT-Battelle LLC at Oak Ridge National Lab.

  3. Process Window for Direct Recycling of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene and High-Impact Polystyrene from Electrical and Electronic Equipment Waste.

    PubMed

    Vazquez, Yamila V; Barbosa, Silvia E

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this paper is to assess recycling process window of ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) and HIPS (High impact Polystyrene) from WEEE (waste from electrical and electronic equipment) through a final properties/structure screening study on their blends. Main motivation is to evaluate which amount of one plastic WEEE can be included into the other at least keeping their properties. In this sense, a wider margin of error during sorting could be admitted to obtain recycling materials with similar technological application of recycled ABS and HIPS by themselves. Results are discussed in terms of final blend structure, focusing in the interaction, within blends, of copolymers phases and fillers presents in WEEE. The comparative analysis of mechanical performance and morphology of HIPS/ABS blends indicates that the addition of 50wt% HIPS to ABS even improves 50% the elongation at break maintaining the strength. On the opposite, HIPS maintains its properties with 20wt% of ABS added. This study allows enlarging composition process window of recycling plastic WEEE for similar applications. This could be a sustainable way to improve benefit of e-scrap with low costs and easy processability. In consequence, social interest in the recycling of this kind of plastic scrap could be encourage from either ecological or economical points of view. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. The styrene-maleic acid copolymer: a versatile tool in membrane research.

    PubMed

    Dörr, Jonas M; Scheidelaar, Stefan; Koorengevel, Martijn C; Dominguez, Juan J; Schäfer, Marre; van Walree, Cornelis A; Killian, J Antoinette

    2016-01-01

    A new and promising tool in membrane research is the detergent-free solubilization of membrane proteins by styrene-maleic acid copolymers (SMAs). These amphipathic molecules are able to solubilize lipid bilayers in the form of nanodiscs that are bounded by the polymer. Thus, membrane proteins can be directly extracted from cells in a water-soluble form while conserving a patch of native membrane around them. In this review article, we briefly discuss current methods of membrane protein solubilization and stabilization. We then zoom in on SMAs, describe their physico-chemical properties, and discuss their membrane-solubilizing effect. This is followed by an overview of studies in which SMA has been used to isolate and investigate membrane proteins. Finally, potential future applications of the methodology are discussed for structural and functional studies on membrane proteins in a near-native environment and for characterizing protein-lipid and protein-protein interactions.

  5. High fluorescence emission silver nano particles coated with poly (styrene-g-soybean oil) graft copolymers: Antibacterial activity and polymerization kinetics.

    PubMed

    Hazer, Baki; Kalaycı, Özlem A

    2017-05-01

    Autoxidation of poly unsaturated fatty acids makes negative effect on foods. In this work, this negative effect was turned to a great advantage using autoxidized soybean oil as a macroperoxide nanocomposite initiator containing silver nano particles in free radical polymerization of vinyl monomers. The synthesis of soybean oil macro peroxide was carried out by exposing soybean oil to air oxygen with the presence of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) at room temperature. Autoxidized soybean oil macroperoxide containing silver nanoparticles (Agsbox) successfully initiated the free radical polymerization of styrene in order to obtain Polystyrene (PS)-g-soybean oil graft copolymer containing Ag NPs. Both autoxidized soybean oil and PS-g-sbox with Ag NPs showed a surface plasmon resonance and high fluorescence emission. Overall rate constant (K) of styrene polymerization initiated by autoxidized soybean oil macroperoxide with Ag NPs was found to be K=1.95.10 -4 Lmol -1 s -1 at 95°C. Antibacterial efficiency was observed in the PS-g-soybean oil graft copolymer film samples containing Ag NPs. 1 H NMR and GPC techniques were used for the structural analysis of the fractionated polymeric oils. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Block Copolymers and Ionic Liquids: A New Class of Functional Nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lodge, Timothy

    2009-03-01

    Block copolymers provide a remarkably versatile platform for achieving desired nanostructures by self-assembly, with lengthscales varying from a few nanometers up to several hundred nanometers. Ionic liquids are an emerging class of solvents, with an appealing set of physical attributes. These include negligible vapor pressure, high chemical and thermal stability, tunable solvation properties, high ionic conductivity, and wide electrochemical windows. For various applications it will be necessary to solidify the ionic liquid into particular spatial arrangements, such as membranes or gels, or to partition the ionic liquid in coexisting phases, such as microemulsions and micelles. One example includes formation of spherical, cylindrical, and vesicular micelles by poly(butadiene-b-ethylene oxide) and poly(styrene-b-methylmethacrylate) in the common hydrophobic ionic liquids [BMI][PF6] and [EMI][TFSI]. This work has been extended to the formation of reversible micelle shuttles between ionic liquids and water, whereby entire micelles transfer from one phase to the other, reversibly, depending on temperature and solvent quality. Formation of ion gels has been achieved by self-assembly of poly(styrene-b-ethylene oxide-b-styrene) triblocks in ionic liquids, and by the thermoreversible system poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-b-ethylene oxide-b-N-isopropylacrylamide), using as little as 4% copolymer. Further, these gels have been shown to be remarkably effective as gate dielectrics in organic thin film transistors. The remarkably high capacitance of the ion gels (> 10 μF/cm^2) supports a very high carrier density in an organic semiconductor such as poly(3-hexylthiophene), leading to milliamp currents for low applied voltages. Furthermore, the rapid mobility of the ions enables switching speeds approaching 10 kHz, orders of magnitude higher than achievable with other polymer-based dielectrics such as PEO/LiClO4. Finally, we have shown that ordered nanostructures of block

  7. Tensile, Creep, and Fatigue Behaviors of 3D-Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Hanyin; Cai, Linlin; Golub, Michael; Zhang, Yi; Yang, Xuehui; Schlarman, Kate; Zhang, Jing

    2018-01-01

    Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a widely used thermoplastics in 3D printing. However, there is a lack of thorough investigation of the mechanical properties of 3D-printed ABS components, including orientation-dependent tensile strength and creep fatigue properties. In this work, a systematic characterization is conducted on the mechanical properties of 3D-printed ABS components. Specifically, the effect of printing orientation on the tensile and creep properties is investigated. The results show that, in tensile tests, the 0° printing orientation has the highest Young's modulus of 1.81 GPa, and ultimate strength of 224 MPa. In the creep test, the 90° printing orientation has the lowest k value of 0.2 in the plastics creep model, suggesting 90° is the most creep resistant direction. In the fatigue test, the average cycle number under load of 30 N is 3796 cycles. The average cycle number decreases to 128 cycles when the load is 60 N. Using the Paris law, with an estimated crack size of 0.75 mm, and stress intensity factor is varied from 352 to 700 N√ m, the derived fatigue crack growth rate is 0.0341 mm/cycle. This study provides important mechanical property data that is useful for applying 3D-printed ABS in engineering applications.

  8. Organic chemistry. A rhodium catalyst for single-step styrene production from benzene and ethylene.

    PubMed

    Vaughan, Benjamin A; Webster-Gardiner, Michael S; Cundari, Thomas R; Gunnoe, T Brent

    2015-04-24

    Rising global demand for fossil resources has prompted a renewed interest in catalyst technologies that increase the efficiency of conversion of hydrocarbons from petroleum and natural gas to higher-value materials. Styrene is currently produced from benzene and ethylene through the intermediacy of ethylbenzene, which must be dehydrogenated in a separate step. The direct oxidative conversion of benzene and ethylene to styrene could provide a more efficient route, but achieving high selectivity and yield for this reaction has been challenging. Here, we report that the Rh catalyst ((Fl)DAB)Rh(TFA)(η(2)-C2H4) [(Fl)DAB is N,N'-bis(pentafluorophenyl)-2,3-dimethyl-1,4-diaza-1,3-butadiene; TFA is trifluoroacetate] converts benzene, ethylene, and Cu(II) acetate to styrene, Cu(I) acetate, and acetic acid with 100% selectivity and yields ≥95%. Turnover numbers >800 have been demonstrated, with catalyst stability up to 96 hours. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

  9. SEPARATION OF VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS BY PERVAPORATION USING S-B-S BLOCK COPOLYMER MEMBRANES.

    EPA Science Inventory

    Composite membranes of a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene (S-B-S) were cast on highly porous, hydrophobic thin films of PTFE, and used for the separation and recovery of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from aqueous solutions by pervaporation. Trichloroethane, trichloroe...

  10. SEPARATION OF VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS BY PERVAPORATION USING S-B-S BLOCK COPOLYMER MEMBRANES

    EPA Science Inventory

    Composite membranes of a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene (S-B-S) were cast on highly porous, hydrophobic thin films of PTFE and used for the separation and recovery of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from aqueous solutions by pervaporation. Trichloroethane, trichloroe...

  11. The static structure and dynamics of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles within poly(styrene- block-isoprene) diblock copolymer melts

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jang, Woo -Sik; Koo, Peter; Bryson, Kyle

    Here, the static structure and dynamic behavior of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles suspended in block copolymer matrix are investigated using transmission electron microscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, and X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy. The transmission electron micro- scopy study shows that cadmium sulfide nanoparticles are preferentially segregated within the polyisoprene domain of a poly(styrene- block-isoprene) diblock copolymer. For the dynamics study, X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy captures the relaxation process of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles. The measured characteristic relaxation time reveals that the observed dynamics are hyperdiffusive. The characteristic velocity and corresponding activation energy, which are hallmarks of a hyperdiffusive system, are determined from themore » relationship between the characteristic relaxation time and the wavevector.« less

  12. The static structure and dynamics of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles within poly(styrene- block-isoprene) diblock copolymer melts

    DOE PAGES

    Jang, Woo -Sik; Koo, Peter; Bryson, Kyle; ...

    2015-12-20

    Here, the static structure and dynamic behavior of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles suspended in block copolymer matrix are investigated using transmission electron microscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering, and X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy. The transmission electron micro- scopy study shows that cadmium sulfide nanoparticles are preferentially segregated within the polyisoprene domain of a poly(styrene- block-isoprene) diblock copolymer. For the dynamics study, X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy captures the relaxation process of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles. The measured characteristic relaxation time reveals that the observed dynamics are hyperdiffusive. The characteristic velocity and corresponding activation energy, which are hallmarks of a hyperdiffusive system, are determined from themore » relationship between the characteristic relaxation time and the wavevector.« less

  13. Adsorption of non-ionic ABC triblock copolymers: Surface modification of TiO2 suspensions in aqueous and non-aqueous medium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lerch, Jean-Philippe; Atanase, Leonard Ionut; Riess, Gérard

    2017-10-01

    A series of non-ionic ABC triblock copolymers, such as poly(butadiene)-b-poly(2-vinylpyrridine)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (PB-P2VP-PEO) were synthesized by sequential anionic polymerizations. For these copolymers comprising an organo-soluble PB and a water-soluble PEO block, their P2VP middle block has been selected for its anchoring capacity on solid surfaces. The adsorption isotherms on TiO2 were obtained in heptane and in aqueous medium, as selective solvents. In both of these cases, the P2VP middle block provides the surface anchoring, whereas PB and PEO sequences are acting as stabilizing moieties in heptane and water respectively. By extension to ABC triblock copolymers of the scaling theory developed for diblock copolymers, the density of adsorbed chains could be correlated with the molecular characteristics of the PB-P2VP-PEO triblock copolymers. From a practical point a view, it could be demonstrated that these copolymers are efficient dispersing agents for the TiO2 pigments in both aqueous and non-aqueous medium.

  14. Ecotoxicity hazard assessment of styrene.

    PubMed

    Cushman, J R; Rausina, G A; Cruzan, G; Gilbert, J; Williams, E; Harrass, M C; Sousa, J V; Putt, A E; Garvey, N A; St Laurent, J P; Hoberg, J R; Machado, M W

    1997-07-01

    The ecotoxicity of styrene was evaluated in acute toxicity studies of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), daphnids (Daphnia magna), amphipods (Hyalella azteca), and freshwater green algae (Selenastrum capricornutum), and a subacute toxicity study of earthworms (Eisenia fostida). Stable exposure levels were maintained in the studies with fathead minnows, daphnids, and amphipods using sealed, flowthrough, serial dilution systems and test vessels. The algae were evaluated in a sealed, static system. The earthworms were exposed in artificial soil which was renewed after 7 days. Styrene concentrations in water and soil were analyzed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection following extraction into hexane. Test results are based on measured concentrations. Styrene was moderately toxic to fathead minnows, daphnids, and amphipods: fathead minnow: LC50 (96 hr), 10 mg/liter, and NOEC, 4.0 mg/liter; daphnids: EC50 (48 hr), 4.7 mg/liter, and NOEC, 1.9 mg/liter; amphipods: LC50 (96 hr), 9.5 mg/liter, and NOEC, 4.1 mg/liter. Styrene was highly toxic to green algae: EC50 (96 hr), 0.72 mg/liter, and NOEC, 0.063 mg/liter; these effects were found to be algistatic rather than algicidal. Styrene was slightly toxic to earthworms: LC50 (14 days), 120 mg/kg, and NOEC, 44 mg/kg. There was no indication of a concern for chronic toxicity based on these studies. Styrene's potential impact on aquatic and soil environments is significantly mitigated by its volatility and biodegradability.

  15. Method for the separation of high impact polystyrene (HIPS) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastics

    DOEpatents

    Jody, Bassam J.; Arman, Bayram; Karvelas, Dimitrios E.; Pomykala, Jr., Joseph A.; Daniels, Edward J.

    1997-01-01

    An improved method is provided for separating acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and high impact polystyrene (HIPS) plastics from each other. The ABS and HIPS plastics are shredded to provide a selected particle size. The shredded particles of the ABS and HIPS plastics are applied to a solution having a solution density in a predefined range between 1.055 gm/cm.sup.3 and 1.07 gm/cm.sup.3, a predefined surface tension in a range between 22 dynes/cm to 40 dynes/cm and a pH in the range of 1.77 and 2.05. In accordance with a feature of the invention, the novel method is provided for separating ABS and HIPS, two solid thermoplastics which have similar densities by selectively modifying the effective density of the HIPS using a binary solution with the appropriate properties, such as pH, density and surface tension, such as a solution of acetic acid and water or a quaternary solution having the appropriate density, surface tension, and pH.

  16. [Studies on the industrial styrene poisoning (Part X). Determination of styrene in biological materials by gas chromatography (author's transl)].

    PubMed

    Teramoto, K; Horiguchi, S

    1980-09-01

    For monitoring solvents exposure, it is useful to determine not only metabolites of the solvents in urine but also the solvents themselves in blood and tissues. In a series of studies on the industrial styrene poisoning, we have been determining styrene in blood and other tissues as occasion calls. Our examination of the method is presented in this report. The outline on the method is as follows: Aliquots of 0.5g of tissues being added 5 ml of n-hexane are homogenized by a high-speed homogenizer (Polytoron) for 10 to 30 seconds and the filtrates containing extracts are analyzed for styrene by gas chromatography. The linearity was ascertained from the calibration curve obtained by adding the known quantities of styrene (4, 10, 20, 40, 100 ppm) to the blood, liver and adipose tissues of rats. Rates of recoveries of styrene from the above tissues were 92 to 101 per cent. Reproducibility of this method was examined by repeating determinations of styrene in the blood, liver and adipose tissues of rats exposed to 500 ppm styrene for 4 hours, the coefficients of variation being 2.8 to 14.0 per cent. There was an approximately linear relationship between the styrene concentration (0 to 1,000 ppm) of the exposed air and those in the blood of exposed rats. We conclude that our simple and rapid method is applicable to determination of solvents other than styrene in organs and tissues by combining suitable solvents for extraction and packings of gas chromatography.

  17. Physical Aging Studies of Styrene-Butadiene and Carbonate-Siloxane Block Copolymers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-11-19

    Carbonate-Siloxane Block Copolymers, ,-- by Martin Tant Garth . D D C Prepared for Publication r - r-on n[? in the JAN Journal of Applied Polymer Science B...revereie ifI nocesy and Identify by black mumibo,) Polymer glasses Non equilibrium glasses Stress relaxation Block copolymers 20. AOSTRACT (Continwaon...copolymers in material applications. -2- Introduction The physical aging phenomenon in glassy polymers has drawn considerable interest within the

  18. Styrene

    Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

    Styrene ; CASRN 100 - 42 - 5 Human health assessment information on a chemical substance is included in the IRIS database only after a comprehensive review of toxicity data , as outlined in the IRIS assessment development process . Sections I ( Health Hazard Assessments for Noncarcinogenic Effects )

  19. 21 CFR 177.1810 - Styrene block polymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Styrene block polymers. 177.1810 Section 177.1810... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1810 Styrene block polymers. The styrene...

  20. 21 CFR 177.1810 - Styrene block polymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Styrene block polymers. 177.1810 Section 177.1810... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1810 Styrene block polymers. The styrene...

  1. 21 CFR 177.1810 - Styrene block polymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Styrene block polymers. 177.1810 Section 177.1810... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1810 Styrene block polymers. The styrene...

  2. 21 CFR 177.1810 - Styrene block polymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Styrene block polymers. 177.1810 Section 177.1810... FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1810 Styrene block polymers. The styrene...

  3. Directed self-assembly of poly(styrene)-block-poly(acrylic acid) copolymers for sub-20nm pitch patterning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Jing; Lawson, Richard A.; Yeh, Wei-Ming; Jarnagin, Nathan D.; Peters, Andrew; Tolbert, Laren M.; Henderson, Clifford L.

    2012-03-01

    Directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymers is a promising technology for extending the patterning capability of current lithographic exposure tools. For example, production of sub-40 nm pitch features using 193nm exposure technologies is conceivably possible using DSA methods without relying on time consuming, challenging, and expensive multiple patterning schemes. Significant recent work has focused on demonstration of the ability to produce large areas of regular grating structures with low numbers of defects using self-assembly of poly(styrene)-b-poly(methyl methacrylate) copolymers (PS-b-PMMA). While these recent results are promising and have shown the ability to print pitches approaching 20 nm using DSA, the ability to advance to even smaller pitches will be dependent upon the ability to develop new block copolymers with higher χ values and the associated alignment and block removal processes required to achieve successful DSA with these new materials. This paper reports on work focused on identifying higher χ block copolymers and their associated DSA processes for sub-20 nm pitch patterning. In this work, DSA using polystyrene-b-polyacid materials has been explored. Specifically, it is shown that poly(styrene)-b-poly(acrylic acid) copolymers (PS-b-PAA) is one promising material for achieving substantially smaller pitch patterns than those possible with PS-b-PMMA while still utilizing simple hydrocarbon polymers. In fact, it is anticipated that much of the learning that has been done with the PS-b-PMMA system, such as development of highly selective plasma etch block removal procedures, can be directly leveraged or transferred to the PS-b-PAA system. Acetone vapor annealing of PS-b-PAA (Mw=16,000 g/mol with 50:50 mole ratio of PS:PAA) and its self-assembly into a lamellar morphology is demonstrated to generate a pattern pitch size (L0) of 21 nm. The χ value for PS-b-PAA was estimated from fingerprint pattern pitch data to be approximately 0.18 which

  4. 21 CFR 177.1810 - Styrene block polymers.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Styrene block polymers. 177.1810 Section 177.1810...) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1810 Styrene block polymers. The styrene block polymers identified in paragraph (a...

  5. Multiscale Mechanical Characterization of Biomimetic Physically Associating Gels

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-09-01

    work, a ballistic gelatin and two styrene- isoprene triblock copolymer gels are tested and compared using both macroscale and microscale measurements... isoprene triblock copolymer gels are tested and compared using both macroscale and microscale measurements. A methodology is presented to conduct

  6. Health Assessment of 1,3-Butadiene

    EPA Science Inventory

    This assessment was conducted to review the new information that has become available since EPA's 1985 health assessment of 1,3-butadiene.

    1,3-Butadiene is a gas used commercially in the production of styrene-butadiene rubber, plastics, and thermoplastic resins. The major...

  7. 75 FR 9438 - Americas Styrenics, LLC-Marietta Plant a Subsidiary of Americas Styrenics, LLLC Formerly Known as...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-03-02

    ... workers of the subject firm. The workers are engaged in the production of styrene monomer and polystyrene... increased customer imports of styrene monomer and polystyrene pellets. The amended notice applicable to TA-W...

  8. Application of Lignin as Antioxidant in Styrene Butadiene Rubber Composite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Shusheng; Cheng, Xiansu

    2010-11-01

    Lignin isolated from enzymatic hydrolyzed cornstalks (EHL) is a renewable natural polymer, and rubber is one of the most important polymer materials. The application of EHL in rubber industry is of great significance. The influence of EHL and antioxidant RD on the vulcanizing characteristics, thermal oxidative aging stability under free condition, and water extraction resistance of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) were investigated. The effect of EHL/antioxidant D composite antioxidant on the thermal oxidative ageing of SBR was also evaluated. Results showed that the protection of SBR from thermal oxidative aging by EHL/antioxidant D composite antioxidant was superior to that of antioxidant D. This is because EHL molecules have hindered phenol group and have excellent auxiliary antioxidant role with antioxidant D. Moreover, the influence of EHL on the vulcanizing characteristics of SBR compounds was better than that of antioxidant RD, and EHL can reduce the cure rate and increase the optimum cure time. It is because that the EHL molecules have hindered phenol group and methoxy group, which can form a special structure to capture free radical and terminate the chain reaction. The retained tensile strength of SBR compounds with EHL was similar to that of the samples with antioxidant RD, while the retained elongation at break of SBR compounds with EHL was higher than that of the samples with antioxidant RD. In addition, the SBR compounds with EHL have a good water extraction resistance property, which was similar to the samples with antioxidant RD. This is because EHL have large molecular weight, good stability and low solubility in water. In conclusion, due to the low price, abundant resources, non-toxic and pollution-free, etc., EHL will have broad application prospect.

  9. Rheological properties of styrene-butadiene rubber filled with electron beam modified surface treated dual phase fillers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shanmugharaj, A. M.; Bhowmick, Anil K.

    2004-01-01

    The rheological properties of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) loaded with dual phase filler were measured using Monsanto Processability Tester (MPT) at three different temperatures (100°C, 110°C and 130°C) and four different shear rates (61.3, 306.3, 613, and 1004.5 s -1). The effect of electron beam modification of dual phase filler in absence and presence of trimethylol propane triacrylate (TMPTA) or triethoxysilylpropyltetrasulphide (Si-69) on melt flow properties of SBR was also studied. The viscosity of all the systems decreases with shear rate indicating their pseudoplastic or shear thinning nature. The higher shear viscosity for the SBR loaded with the electron beam modified filler is explained in terms of variation in structure of the filler upon electron beam irradiation. Die swell of the modified filler loaded SBR is slightly higher than that of the unmodified filler loaded rubber, which is explained by calculating normal stress difference for the systems. Activation energy of the modified filler loaded SBR systems is also slightly higher than that of the control filler loaded SBR system.

  10. Stable-isotope-based labeling of styrene-degrading microorganisms in biofilters.

    PubMed

    Alexandrino, M; Knief, C; Lipski, A

    2001-10-01

    Deuterated styrene ([(2)H(8)]styrene) was used as a tracer in combination with phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis for characterization of styrene-degrading microbial populations of biofilters used for treatment of waste gases. Deuterated fatty acids were detected and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The method was evaluated with pure cultures of styrene-degrading bacteria and defined mixed cultures of styrene degraders and non-styrene-degrading organisms. Incubation of styrene degraders for 3 days with [(2)H(8)]styrene led to fatty acids consisting of up to 90% deuterated molecules. Mixed-culture experiments showed that specific labeling of styrene-degrading strains and only weak labeling of fatty acids of non-styrene-degrading organisms occurred after incubation with [(2)H(8)]styrene for up to 7 days. Analysis of actively degrading filter material from an experimental biofilter and a full-scale biofilter by this method showed that there were differences in the patterns of labeled fatty acids. For the experimental biofilter the fatty acids with largest amounts of labeled molecules were palmitic acid (16:0), 9,10-methylenehexadecanoic acid (17:0 cyclo9-10), and vaccenic acid (18:1 cis11). These lipid markers indicated that styrene was degraded by organisms with a Pseudomonas-like fatty acid profile. In contrast, the most intensively labeled fatty acids of the full-scale biofilter sample were palmitic acid and cis-11-hexadecenoic acid (16:1 cis11), indicating that an unknown styrene-degrading taxon was present. Iso-, anteiso-, and 10-methyl-branched fatty acids showed no or weak labeling. Therefore, we found no indication that styrene was degraded by organisms with methyl-branched fatty fatty acids, such as Xanthomonas, Bacillus, Streptomyces, or Gordonia spp.

  11. CYP2F2-generated metabolites, not styrene oxide, are a key event mediating the mode of action of styrene-induced mouse lung tumors.

    PubMed

    Cruzan, G; Bus, J; Hotchkiss, J; Harkema, J; Banton, M; Sarang, S

    2012-02-01

    Styrene induces lung tumors in mice but not in rats. Although metabolism of styrene to 7,8-styrene oxide (SO) by CYP2E1 has been suggested as a mediator of styrene toxicity, lung toxicity is not attenuated in CYP2E1 knockout mice. However, styrene and/or SO metabolism by mouse lung Clara cell-localized CYP2F2 to ring-oxidized cytotoxic metabolite(s) has been postulated as a key metabolic gateway responsible for both lung toxicity and possible tumorigenicity. To test this hypothesis, the lung toxicity of styrene and SO was evaluated in C57BL/6 (WT) and CYP2F2⁻/⁻ knockout mice treated with styrene (400 mg/kg/day, gavage, or 200 or 400 mg/kg/day, ip) or S- or R-SO (200 mg/kg/day, ip) for 5 days. Styrene treated WT mice displayed significant necrosis and exfoliation of Clara cells, and cumulative BrdU-labeling index of S-phase cells was markedly increased in terminal bronchioles of WT mice exposed to styrene or S- or RSO. In contrast, Clara and terminal bronchiole cell toxicity was not observed in CYP2F2⁻/⁻ mice exposed to either styrene or SO. This study clearly demonstrates that the mouse lung toxicity of both styrene and SO is critically dependent on metabolism by CYP2F2. Importantly, the human isoform of CYP2F, CYP2F1, is expressed at much lower levels and likely does not catalyze significant styrene metabolism, supporting the hypothesis that styrene-induced mouse lung tumors may not quantitatively, or possibly qualitatively, predict lung tumor potential in humans. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Predicting the chromatographic retention of polymers: application of the polymer model to poly(styrene/ethylacrylate)copolymers.

    PubMed

    Bashir, Mubasher A; Radke, Wolfgang

    2012-02-17

    The retention behavior of a range of statistical poly(styrene/ethylacrylate) copolymers is investigated, in order to determine the possibility to predict retention volumes of these copolymers based on a suitable chromatographic retention model. It was found that the composition of elution in gradient chromatography of the copolymers is closely related to the eluent composition at which, in isocratic chromatography, the transition from elution in adsorption to exclusion mode occurs. For homopolymers this transition takes place at a critical eluent composition at which the molar mass dependence of elution volume vanishes. Thus, similar critical eluent compositions can be defined for statistical copolymers. The existence of a critical eluent composition is further supported by the narrower peak width, indicating that the broad molar mass distribution of the samples does not contribute to the retention volume. It is shown that the existing retention model for homopolymers allows for correct quantitative predictions of retention volumes based on only three appropriate initial experiments. The selection of these initial experiments involves a gradient run and two isocratic experiments, one at the composition of elution calculated from first gradient run and second at a slightly higher eluent strength. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Pulmonary function and oxidative stress in workers exposed to styrene in plastic factory: occupational hazards in styrene-exposed plastic factory workers.

    PubMed

    Sati, Prakash Chandra; Khaliq, Farah; Vaney, Neelam; Ahmed, Tanzeel; Tripathi, Ashok K; Banerjee, Basu Dev

    2011-11-01

    Styrene is a volatile organic compound used in factories for synthesis of plastic products. The pneumotoxicity of styrene in experimental animals is known. The aim of the present study was to study the effect of styrene on lung function and oxidative stress in occupationally exposed workers in plastic factory. Thirty-four male workers, between 18 and 40 years of age, exposed to styrene for atleast 8 hours a day for more than a year were studied, while 30 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects not exposed to styrene served as controls. Assessment of lung functions showed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in most of the lung volumes, capacities (FVC, FEV(1), VC, ERV, IRV, and IC) and flow rates (PEFR, MEF(75%), and MVV) in the study group (workers) as compared to controls. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed to be significantly high (p < 0.05) while ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) was significantly low (p < 0.05) in styrene-exposed subjects. Reduced glutathione (GSH) level was significantly depleted in exposed subjects as compared to control group. The mean value of serum cytochrome c in styrene-exposed subjects was found to be 1.1 ng/ml (0.89-1.89) while in control its levels were under detection limit (0.05 ng/ml). It shows that styrene inhalation by workers leads to increased level of oxidative stress, which is supposed to be the cause of lung damage.

  14. Glass Transition and Molecular Mobility in Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Modified Asphalt.

    PubMed

    Khabaz, Fardin; Khare, Rajesh

    2015-11-05

    Asphalt, a soft matter consisting of more than a thousand chemical species, is of vital importance for the transportation infrastructure, yet it poses significant challenges for microscopic theory and modeling approaches due to its multicomponent nature. Polymeric additives can potentially enhance the thermo-mechanical properties of asphalt, thus helping reduce the road repair costs; rational design of such systems requires knowledge of the molecular structure and dynamics of these systems. We have used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to investigate the volumetric, structural, and dynamic properties of the neat asphalt as well as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) modified asphalt systems. The volume-temperature behavior of the asphalt systems exhibited a glass transition phenomenon, akin to that observed in experiments. The glass transition temperature, room temperature density, and coefficient of volume thermal expansion of the neat asphalt systems so evaluated were in agreement with experimental data when the effect of the high cooling rate used in simulations was accounted for. While the volumetric properties of SBR modified asphalt were found to be insensitive to the presence of the SBR additive, the addition of SBR led to an increase in the aggregation of asphaltene molecules. Furthermore, addition of SBR caused a reduction in the mobility of the constituent molecules of asphalt, with the reduction being more significant for the larger constituent molecules. Similar to other glass forming liquids, the reciprocal of the diffusion coefficient of the selected molecules was observed to follow the Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann (VFT) behavior as a function of temperature. These results suggest the potential for using polymeric additives for enhancing the dynamic mechanical properties of asphalt without affecting its volumetric properties.

  15. Investigation of styrene in the liver perfusion/cell culture system. No indication of styrene-7,8-oxide as the principal mutagenic metabolite produced by the intact rat liver.

    PubMed

    Beije, B; Jenssen, D

    1982-03-01

    Mutagenic effect of styrene and styrene-7,8-oxide was studied with the isolated perfused rat liver as metabolizing system and Chinese hamster V79 cells as genetic target cells. Styrene-7,8-oxide which is mutagenic per se was rapidly metabolized by the perfused rat liver. Thus no mutagenic effect was detected neither in the perfusion medium nor in the bile. However when styrene was added to the perfusion system, an increase in V79 mutants was observed regardless of where in the circulating perfusion medium the V79 cells were placed: the same effect was obtained with V79 cells close to the liver as well as at a distance from the liver. No mutagenic effect was observed in the bile. Simultaneous analysis of the styrene-7,8-oxide concentration in the perfusion medium, suggest that this metabolite is not the cause of the mutagenic effect observed during perfusion with styrene. The effect of the two test compounds on some liver functions was also studied. Both styrene and styrene-7,8-oxide changed the bile flow without affecting bile acid secretion: styrene caused a reduction in bile flow as compared to control perfusions and styrene-7,8-oxide increased the bile flow. Styrene, but not styrene-7,8-oxide, reduced gluconeogenesis from lactate. Styrene had no effect on the liver's capacity to incorporate amino acids into plasma proteins, whereas styrene-7,8-oxide reduced the amino acid incorporation. The microsomal cytochrome P-450 content was not affected by the two test compounds. No alteration in microsomal N- and C-oxygenation of N,N-dimethylaniline (DMA) was observed with styrene-7,8-oxide or the lower styrene dose used (240 mumol), whereas the higher styrene concentration (480 mumol) reduced N-oxygenation and thus also the total DNA metabolism. It is suggested that the results on styrene and styrene-7,8-oxide found here using the liver perfusion/cell culture system mimic the metabolism expected to be found in the intact animal, thus indicating that styrene-7,8-oxide is

  16. Bacterial Reaction Centers Purified with Styrene Maleic Acid Copolymer Retain Native Membrane Functional Properties and Display Enhanced Stability**

    PubMed Central

    Swainsbury, David J K; Scheidelaar, Stefan; van Grondelle, Rienk; Killian, J Antoinette; Jones, Michael R

    2014-01-01

    Integral membrane proteins often present daunting challenges for biophysical characterization, a fundamental issue being how to select a surfactant that will optimally preserve the individual structure and functional properties of a given membrane protein. Bacterial reaction centers offer a rare opportunity to compare the properties of an integral membrane protein in different artificial lipid/surfactant environments with those in the native bilayer. Here, we demonstrate that reaction centers purified using a styrene maleic acid copolymer remain associated with a complement of native lipids and do not display the modified functional properties that typically result from detergent solubilization. Direct comparisons show that reaction centers are more stable in this copolymer/lipid environment than in a detergent micelle or even in the native membrane, suggesting a promising new route to exploitation of such photovoltaic integral membrane proteins in device applications. PMID:25212490

  17. Metabolism of styrene to styrene oxide and vinylphenols in cytochrome P450 2F2- and P450 2E1-knockout mouse liver and lung microsomes

    PubMed Central

    Shen, Shuijie; Li, Lei; Ding, Xinxin; Zheng, Jiang

    2014-01-01

    Pulmonary toxicity of styrene is initiated by cytochromes P450-dependent metabolic activation. P450 2E1 and P450 2F2 are considered to be two main cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes responsible for styrene metabolism in mice. The objective of the current study was to determine the correlation between the formation of styrene metabolites (i.e. styrene oxide and 4-vinylphenol) and pulmonary toxicity of styrene, using Cyp2e1- and Cyp2f2-null mouse models. Dramatic decrease in the formation of styrene glycol and 4-vinylphenol was found in Cyp2f2-null mouse lung microsomes, relative to that in the wild-type mouse lung microsomes. However, no significant difference in the production of the styrene metabolites was observed between lung microsomes obtained from Cyp2e1-null and the wild-type mice. The knock–out and wild-type mice were treated with styrene (6.0 mmol/kg, ip), and cell counts and LDH activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids were monitored to evaluate the pulmonary toxicity induced by styrene. Cyp2e1-null mice displayed similar susceptibility to lung toxicity of styrene as the wild-type animals. However, Cyp2f2-null mice were resistant to styrene-induced pulmonary toxicity. In conclusion, both P450 2E1 and P450 2F2 are responsible for the metabolic activation of styrene. The latter enzyme plays an important role in styrene-induced pulmonary toxicity. Both styrene oxide and 4-vinylphenol are suggested to participate in the development of lung injury induced by styrene. PMID:24320693

  18. Metabolism of styrene to styrene oxide and vinylphenols in cytochrome P450 2F2- and P450 2E1-knockout mouse liver and lung microsomes.

    PubMed

    Shen, Shuijie; Li, Lei; Ding, Xinxin; Zheng, Jiang

    2014-01-21

    Pulmonary toxicity of styrene is initiated by cytochromes P450-dependent metabolic activation. P450 2E1 and P450 2F2 are considered to be two main cytochrome P450 enzymes responsible for styrene metabolism in mice. The objective of the current study was to determine the correlation between the formation of styrene metabolites (i.e., styrene oxide and 4-vinylphenol) and pulmonary toxicity of styrene, using Cyp2e1- and Cyp2f2-null mouse models. A dramatic decrease in the formation of styrene glycol and 4-vinylphenol was found in Cyp2f2-null mouse lung microsomes relative to that in the wild-type mouse lung microsomes; however, no significant difference in the production of the styrene metabolites was observed between lung microsomes obtained from Cyp2e1-null and the wild-type mice. The knockout and wild-type mice were treated with styrene (6.0 mmol/kg, ip), and cell counts and LDH activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids were monitored to evaluate the pulmonary toxicity induced by styrene. Cyp2e1-null mice displayed a susceptibility to lung toxicity of styrene similar to that of the wild-type animals; however, Cyp2f2-null mice were resistant to styrene-induced pulmonary toxicity. In conclusion, both P450 2E1 and P450 2F2 are responsible for the metabolic activation of styrene. The latter enzyme plays an important role in styrene-induced pulmonary toxicity. Both styrene oxide and 4-vinylphenol are suggested to participate in the development of lung injury induced by styrene.

  19. Industrywide studies report of an in-depth survey at Copolymer Rubber and Chemical Corporation, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Krishnan, E.R.; Fajen, J.M.

    1987-05-08

    An in depth industrial hygiene survey was conducted at the Copolymer Rubber and Chemical Corporation located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The facility produced styrene-butadiene rubber and nitrile-butadiene rubber by continuous emulsion polymerization. The ultimate use of this product was for the manufacture of tire and rubber products. The authors recommend that leaking pumps which can present a potential for 1,3-butadiene exposure in the tank farm and recovery areas should be controlled through the use of dual mechanical seals. Employees assigned to maintenance tasks should use respirators with organic vapor cartridges.

  20. The use of DMA to characterize the aging of asphalt binders.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2010-06-01

    This report presents issues associated with long-term aging of polymer modified asphalt cements (PMACs) as : reflected by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) data. In this study a standard SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene block : copolymer) polymer modif...

  1. Controlling of free radical copolymerization of styrene and maleic anhydride via RAFT process for the preparation of acetaminophen drug conjugates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sütekin, S. Duygu; Atıcı, Ayşe Bakar; Güven, Olgun; Hoffman, Allan S.

    2018-07-01

    The presence of maleic anhydride moiety in styrene-maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer makes it a versatile substrate for conjugation of drugs. In this study biocompatible styrene-maleic anhydride (SMA) copolymer with alternating structure was synthesized by gamma irradiation at room temperature in the presence of 2-phenyl-2-propyl benzodithioate (PPB). The poly(styrene-alt-maleic anhydride) (poly(St-alt-MA)) with narrow molecular weight distribution (Đ: 1.1-1.3) was prepared by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The synthesized poly(St-alt-MA) structure was characterized by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and 1H NMR spectroscopy and molecular weight and dispersity were determined by size exclusion chromatography (SEC). SMA copolymers were further conjugated with acetaminophen via ester linkage and FT-IR, 1H NMR investigation indicated that the acetaminophen was attached to poly(St-alt-MA). Drug release profile of the polymer-drug conjugate was followed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The drug-conjugate system was found to follow first order release kinetics with Hixson-Crowell model while drug release mechanism was found as non-Fickian diffusion after testing various kinetic models.

  2. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lu, Wei; Goodwin, Andrew; Wang, Yangyang

    All-acrylic multigraft copolymers made by a facile synthesis procedure exhibit elongation at break >1700% and strain recovery behavior far exceeding those of commercial acrylic and styrenic triblock copolymers.

  3. Triblock copolyampholytes from 5-(N,N-dimethyl amino)isoprene styrene, and methacrylic acid: Synthesis and solution properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bieringer, R.; Abetz, V.; Müller, A. H. E.

    ABC triblock copolymers of the type poly[5-(N,N-dimethyl amino)isoprene]-block-polystyrene-block-poly(tert-butyl methacrylate) (AiST) were synthesized and hydrolyzed to yield poly[5-(N,N-dimethyl amino)isoprene]-block-polystyrene-block-poly(methacrylic acid) (AiSA) triblock copolyampholytes. Due to a complex solubility behavior the solution properties of these materials had to be investigated in THF/water solvent mixtures. Potentiometric titrations of AiSA triblock copolyampholytes showed two inflection points with the A block being deprotonated prior to the Ai hydrochloride block thus forming a polyzwitterion at the isoelectric point (iep). The aggregation behavior was studied by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and freeze-fracture/transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Large vesicular structures with almost pH-independent radii were observed.

  4. Styrene-Associated Health Outcomes at a Windblade Manufacturing Plant

    PubMed Central

    McCague, Anna-Binney; Cox-Ganser, Jean M.; Harney, Joshua M.; Alwis, K. Udeni; Blount, Benjamin C.; Cummings, Kristin J.; Edwards, Nicole; Kreiss, Kathleen

    2015-01-01

    Background Health risks of using styrene to manufacture windblades for the green energy sector are unknown. Methods Using data collected from 355 (73%) current windblade workers and regression analysis, we investigated associations between health outcomes and styrene exposure estimates derived from urinary styrene metabolites. Results The median current styrene exposure was 53.6 mg/g creatinine (interquartile range: 19.5–94.4). Color blindness in men and women (standardized morbidity ratios 2.3 and 16.6, respectively) was not associated with exposure estimates, but was the type previously reported with styrene. Visual contrast sensitivity decreased and chest tightness increased (odds ratio 2.9) with increasing current exposure. Decreases in spirometric parameters and FeNO, and increases in the odds of wheeze and asthma-like symptoms (odds ratios 1.3 and 1.2, respectively) occurred with increasing cumulative exposure. Conclusions Despite styrene exposures below the recommended 400 mg/g creatinine, visual and respiratory effects indicate the need for additional preventative measures in this industry. PMID:26305283

  5. REDUCING STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM SPRAYED FILLED RESINS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Styrene emissions are coming under increasing study as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) develops maximum achievable control technology standards. During the manufacture of fiber-reinforced plastics/composites products, styrene, a volatile organic compound and a haz...

  6. Separation of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene waste plastics by froth flotation combined with ammonia pretreatment.

    PubMed

    Wang, Chong-Qing; Wang, Hui; Liu, Qun; Fu, Jian-Gang; Liu, You-Nian

    2014-12-01

    The objective of this research is flotation separation of polycarbonate (PC) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) waste plastics combined with ammonia pretreatment. The PC and ABS plastics show similar hydrophobicity, and ammonia treatment changes selectively floatability of PC plastic while ABS is insensitive to ammonia treatment. The contact angle measurement indicates the dropping of flotation recovery of PC is ascribed to a decline of contact angle. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates reactions occur on PC surface, which makes PC surface more hydrophilic. Separation of PC and ABS waste plastics was conducted based on the flotation behavior of single plastic. At different temperatures, PC and ABS mixtures were separated efficiently through froth flotation with ammonia pretreatment for different time (13 min at 23 °C, 18 min at 18 °C and 30 min at 23 °C). For both PC and ABS, the purity and recovery is more than 95.31% and 95.35%, respectively; the purity of PC and ABS is up to 99.72% and 99.23%, respectively. PC and ABS mixtures with different particle sizes were separated effectively, implying that ammonia treatment possesses superior applicability. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Synergetic effect of graphene oxide-carbon nanotube on nanomechanical properties of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene nanocomposites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jyoti, Jeevan; Pratap Singh, Bhanu; Chockalingam, Sreekumar; Joshi, Amish G.; Gupta, Tejendra K.; Dhakate, S. R.

    2018-04-01

    Herein, multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), graphene oxide-carbon nanotubes (GCNTs) hybrid reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) nanocomposites have been prepared by micro twin screw extruder with back flow channel and the effect of different type of fillers on the nanomechanical properties are studied. The combination of both graphene oxide and CNT has enhanced the dispersion in polymer matrix and lower the probability of CNTs aggregation. GCNTs hybrid have been synthesized via novel chemical route and well characterized using Raman spectroscopic technique. The nanoindentation hardness and elastic modulus of GCNTs-ABS hybrid nanocomposites were improved from 211.3 MPa and 4.12 GPa of neat ABS to 298.9 MPa and 6.02 GPa, respectively at 5wt% GCNTs loading. In addition to hardness and elastic modulus, other mechanical properties i.e. plastic index parameter, elastic recovery, ratio of residual displacement after load removal and displacement at the maximum load and plastic deformation energy have also been investigated. These results were correlated with Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) techniques and microstructural characterizations (scanning electron microscopy). Our demonstration would provide guidelines for the fabrication of hard and scratches nanocomposite materials for potential use in, automotive trim components and bumper bars, carrying cases and electronic industries and electromagnetic interference shielding.

  8. CYP2E1 Metabolism of Styrene Involves Allostery

    PubMed Central

    Hartman, Jessica H.; Boysen, Gunnar

    2012-01-01

    We are the first to report allosterism during styrene oxidation by recombinant CYP2E1 and human liver microsomes. At low styrene concentrations, oxidation is inefficient because of weak binding to CYP2E1 (Ks = 830 μM). A second styrene molecule then binds CYP2E1 with higher affinity (Kss = 110 μM) and significantly improves oxidation to achieve a kcat of 6.3 nmol · min−1 · nmol CYP2E1−1. The transition between these metabolic cycles coincides with reported styrene concentrations in blood from exposed workers; thus, this CYP2E1 mechanism may be relevant in vivo. Scaled modeling of the in vitro-positive allosteric mechanism for styrene metabolism to its in vivo clearance led to significant deviations from the traditional model based on Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Low styrene levels were notably much less toxic than generally assumed. We interrogated the allosteric mechanism using the CYP2E1-specific inhibitor and drug 4-methylpyrazole, which we have shown binds two CYP2E1 sites. From the current studies, styrene was a positive allosteric effector on 4-methylpyrazole binding, based on a 10-fold increase in 4-methylpyrazole binding affinity from Ki 0.51 to Ksi 0.043 μM. The inhibitor was a negative allosteric effector on styrene oxidation, because kcat decreased 6-fold to 0.98 nmol · min−1 · nmol CYP2E1−1. Consequently, mixtures of styrene and other molecules can induce allosteric effects on binding and metabolism by CYP2E1 and thus mitigate the efficiency of their metabolism and corresponding effects on human health. Taken together, our elucidation of mechanisms for these allosteric reactions provides a powerful tool for further investigating the complexities of CYP2E1 metabolism of drugs and pollutants. PMID:22807108

  9. Enantiomeric fraction of styrene glycol as a biomarker of occupational risk exposure to styrene.

    PubMed

    Lima, J J; Aguilar, A; Sánchez, F G; Díaz, A N

    2017-02-01

    This work reports a new analytical approach for monitoring the enantiomeric ratios of styrene glycol (SG), encountered during the manufacture of plastics, by chiral liquid chromatography and the application as a biomarker for exposure to styrene. The isomers were separated using an AGP column running in the reverse phase and isocratic mode with a mobile phase consisting of 20 mM phosphate buffer saline (pH 4.15) and methanol at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. Photometric, polarimetric, and circular dichroism detectors were employed. The chromatographic enantioselective resolution (Rs) and selectivity index (α) values were determined to be 1.60 and 1.48 (by photometric detection), respectively. Calibration curves used for the quantification of the SG enantiomers were linear with a correlation coefficient >0.99; the detection limits were in the range of 0.03-0.16 μg, depending on the detector used. Recovery assays on synthetic samples (in triplicate) covering the full range of enantiomeric fractions (0.0-1.0) show accuracy values below 5% for the enantiomeric fraction (EF) in every case. An alternative method based on the measurement of anisotropy factors for the determination of EF, which is faster and does not require the separation of enantiomers, has also been developed. The enantiomeric excess of the toxicant biomarker styrene glycol has been determined. No previous direct enantioselective determination of styrene glycol was published. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Occupational asthma in the furniture industry: is it due to styrene?

    PubMed

    Oner, Ferda; Mungan, Dilşad; Numanoglu, Numan; Demirel, Yavuz

    2004-01-01

    Styrene, a volatile monomer, has been reported as a cause of occupational asthma in a few case reports. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk for asthma in relation to exposure to styrene in a large number of workers. A total of 47 workers with a history of exposure to styrene were included in the study. To establish whether asthma was present, each patient underwent a clinical interview, pulmonary function testing and bronchial challenge with methacholine. Specific bronchial challenges with styrene and serial peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurement at home and at work were carried out in subjects with a diagnosis of asthma to evaluate the relationship between their asthma and exposure to styrene in the workplace. Among the 47 subjects, 5 workers had given a history of work-related symptoms, and 3 of them had a positive methacholine challenge test. Specific bronchial challenges with styrene and serial PEF measurement were subsequently carried out in these 3 subjects. Although provocation tests with styrene were negative in the 3 workers, 1 worker had PEF rate records compatible with occupational asthma. We established one patient with occupational asthma from a group of people who have excessive styrene exposure. This finding may be suggestive but is not conclusive about the causative role of styrene in occupational asthma. Since styrene is a frequently used substance in the furniture industry, it is worth performing further studies to investigate the relationship between styrene and occupational asthma. Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel

  11. Photoactuation behavior of styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene filled with covalently modified carbon nanotubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mosnáček, Jaroslav; Ilčíková, Markéta; Chorvát, Dušan; Czaniková, Klaudia; Krupa, Igor

    2012-07-01

    Styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene (Kraton) was used as polymer matrix for preparation of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) based nanocomposites. In order to suppress aggregation of the he carbon nanotubes and to improve the interations with the Kraton matrix, the MWCNT were modified with cholesteryl molecules and/or polystyrene chains. The effect of the modification on the composite materials was evaluated by using DMTA. The nanocomposite materials were thermoformed to achieve Braille text elements and their elastic response to light (photoactuation) was tested by atomic force microscopy in a contact mode.

  12. A multicenter study on the audiometric findings of styrene-exposed workers.

    PubMed

    Morata, Thais C; Sliwinska-Kowalska, Mariola; Johnson, Ann-Christin; Starck, Jukka; Pawlas, Krystyna; Zamyslowska-Szmytke, Ewa; Nylen, Per; Toppila, Esko; Krieg, Edward; Pawlas, Natalia; Prasher, Deepak

    2011-10-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate hearing loss among workers exposed to styrene, alone or with noise. This cross-sectional study was conducted as part of NoiseChem, a European Commission 5th Framework Programme research project, by occupational health institutes in Finland, Sweden, and Poland. Participants' ages ranged from 18-72 years (n = 1620 workers). Participants exposed to styrene, alone or with noise, were from reinforced fiberglass products manufacturing plants (n = 862). Comparison groups were comprised of workers noise-exposed (n = 400) or controls (n = 358). Current styrene exposures ranged from 0 to 309 mg/m(3), while mean current noise levels ranged from 70-84 dB(A). Hearing thresholds of styrene-exposed participants were compared with Annexes A and B from ANSI S3.44, 1996. The audiometric thresholds of styrene exposed workers were significantly poorer than those in published standards. Age, gender, and styrene exposure met the significance level criterion in the multiple logistic regression for the binary outcome 'hearing loss' (P = 0.0000). Exposure to noise (<85 dBA p = 0.0001; ≥85 dB(A) p = 0.0192) interacted significantly with styrene exposure. Occupational exposure to styrene is a risk factor for hearing loss, and styrene-exposed workers should be included in hearing loss prevention programs.

  13. Amphiphilic graft copolymer based on poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) with low molecular weight polyethylenimine for efficient gene delivery

    PubMed Central

    Duan, Xiaopin; Xiao, Jisheng; Yin, Qi; Zhang, Zhiwen; Mao, Shirui; Li, Yaping

    2012-01-01

    Background and methods A new amphiphilic comb-shaped copolymer (SP) was synthesized by conjugating poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) with low molecular weight polyethyleneimine for gene delivery. Fourier transform infrared spectrum, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, and gel permeation chromatography were used to characterize the graft copolymer. Results The buffering capability of SP was similar to that of polyethyleneimine within the endosomal pH range. The copolymer could condense DNA effectively to form complexes with a positive charge (13–30 mV) and a small particle size (130–200 nm) at N/P ratios between 5 and 20, and protect DNA from degradation by DNase I. In addition, SP showed much lower cytotoxicity than polyethyleneimine 25,000. Importantly, the gene transfection activity and cellular uptake of SP-DNA complexes were all markedly higher than that of complexes of polyethyleneimine 25,000 and DNA in MCF-7 and MCF-7/ADR cell lines. Conclusion This work highlights the promise of SP as a safe and efficient synthetic vector for DNA delivery. PMID:23028224

  14. Characteristics of styrene-butadiene rubber/silica/Nanoprene compounds for application in tire tread.

    PubMed

    Seo, Byeongho; Kang, Jonghyub; Jang, Sukhee; Kang, Yonggu; Kim, Wonho

    2013-03-01

    Nanoprene is made from chemically cross-linked rubber particles, and has many hydroxyl groups on the surface of the particles. It is speculated that the Nanoprene could reduce the silica-silica network formation by introducing hydrogen bonding between the silanol group of silica and the hydroxyl group of Nanoprene. In this study, the styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)/silica compounds with two types of the Nanoprene (BM75OH, BM15OH) were evaluated and it could be well explained by the concept of the volume fraction of filler or the volume fraction of rubber. If the Nanoprene applied to the compound is considered as a kind of filler, the minimum torque values and bound rubber contents of the un-vulcanized compounds, the swelling ratio and the stress-strain relationship of the vulcanized compounds could be well explained by the volume fraction of filler (phi(F)). If Nanoprene is considered as a kind of rubber such as SBR, the properties such as peak tan delta, Payne effect, tan delta at 0 degrees C and 60 degrees C, and abrasion resistance could be well explained by the volume fraction of rubber (phi'(R)). However, the improvement of silica dispersion by addition of the Nanoprene particles in the compounds was not significant. The application of BM75OH as a polymer to the tread compound will be suitable for winter tires. In addition, the compound with BM15OH as an additive will be suitable as a tread compound for summer tires.

  15. The industrial production and use of 1,3-butadiene.

    PubMed Central

    Morrow, N L

    1990-01-01

    This presentation provides a brief overview of the production and use of 1,3-butadiene in the United States. Starting as a coproduct of ethylene, the 1,3-butadiene monomer is extracted and purified, then transferred to consumers. Major uses of 1,3-butadiene include the manufacture of styrene-butadiene rubber, polybutadiene rubber, and adiponitrile. PMID:2205493

  16. Bacterial degradation of styrene in waste gases using a peat filter.

    PubMed

    Arnold, M; Reittu, A; von Wright, A; Martikainen, P J; Suihko, M L

    1997-12-01

    A biofiltration process was developed for styrene-containing off-gases using peat as filter material. The average styrene reduction ratio after 190 days of operation was 70% (max. 98%) and the mean styrene elimination capacity was 12 g m-3 h-1 (max. 30 g m-3 h-1). Efficient styrene degradation required addition of nutrients to the peat, adjustment of the pH to a neutral level and efficient control of the humidity. Maintenance of the water balance was easier in a down-flow than in an up-flow process, the former consequently resulting in much better filtration efficiency. The optimum operation temperature was around 23 degrees C, but the styrene removal was still satisfactory at 12 degrees C. Seven different bacterial isolates belonging to the genera Tsukamurella, Pseudomonas, Sphingomonas, Xanthomonas and an unidentified genus in the gamma group of the Proteobacteria isolated from the microflora of active peat filter material were capable of styrene degradation. The isolates differed in their capacity to decompose styrene to carbon dioxide and assimilate it to biomass. No toxic intermediate degradation products of styrene were detected in the filter outlet gas or in growing cultures of isolated bacteria. The use of these isolates in industrial biofilters is beneficial at low styrene concentrations and is safe from both the environmental and public health points of view.

  17. The Iodochlorination of Styrene: An Experiment that Makes a Difference

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Amiet, R. Gary; Urban, Sylvia

    2008-01-01

    The iodochlorination of styrene, involving the addition of iodine monochloride to styrene, followed by the sodium methoxide-initiated dehydrohalogenation of the product results in a variable mixture of substituted styrenes by way of various substitution and elimination reaction mechanisms. As a result individual results are obtained for each…

  18. Production of biorenewable styrene: utilization of biomass-derived sugars and insights into toxicity.

    PubMed

    Lian, Jieni; McKenna, Rebekah; Rover, Marjorie R; Nielsen, David R; Wen, Zhiyou; Jarboe, Laura R

    2016-05-01

    Fermentative production of styrene from glucose has been previously demonstrated in Escherichia coli. Here, we demonstrate the production of styrene from the sugars derived from lignocellulosic biomass depolymerized by fast pyrolysis. A previously engineered styrene-producing strain was further engineered for utilization of the anhydrosugar levoglucosan via expression of levoglucosan kinase. The resulting strain produced 240 ± 3 mg L(-1) styrene from pure levoglucosan, similar to the 251 ± 3 mg L(-1) produced from glucose. When provided at a concentration of 5 g L(-1), pyrolytic sugars supported styrene production at titers similar to those from pure sugars, demonstrating the feasibility of producing this important industrial chemical from biomass-derived sugars. However, the toxicity of contaminant compounds in the biomass-derived sugars and styrene itself limit further gains in production. Styrene toxicity is generally believed to be due to membrane damage. Contrary to this prevailing wisdom, our quantitative assessment during challenge with up to 200 mg L(-1) of exogenously provided styrene showed little change in membrane integrity; membrane disruption was observed only during styrene production. Membrane fluidity was also quantified during styrene production, but no changes were observed relative to the non-producing control strain. This observation that styrene production is much more damaging to the membrane integrity than challenge with exogenously supplied styrene provides insight into the mechanism of styrene toxicity and emphasizes the importance of verifying proposed toxicity mechanisms during production instead of relying upon results obtained during exogenous challenge.

  19. Synchrotron-based FTIR microspectroscopy for the mapping of photo-oxidation and additives in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene model samples and historical objects.

    PubMed

    Saviello, Daniela; Pouyet, Emeline; Toniolo, Lucia; Cotte, Marine; Nevin, Austin

    2014-09-16

    Synchrotron-based Fourier transform infrared micro-spectroscopy (SR-μFTIR) was used to map photo-oxidative degradation of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and to investigate the presence and the migration of additives in historical samples from important Italian design objects. High resolution (3×3 μm(2)) molecular maps were obtained by FTIR microspectroscopy in transmission mode, using a new method for the preparation of polymer thin sections. The depth of photo-oxidation in samples was evaluated and accompanied by the formation of ketones, aldehydes, esters, and unsaturated carbonyl compounds. This study demonstrates selective surface oxidation and a probable passivation of material against further degradation. In polymer fragments from design objects made of ABS from the 1960s, UV-stabilizers were detected and mapped, and microscopic inclusions of proteinaceous material were identified and mapped for the first time. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. The Synergy of Double Cross-linking Agents on the Properties of Styrene Butadiene Rubber Foams

    PubMed Central

    Shao, Liang; Ji, Zhan-You; Ma, Jian-Zhong; Xue, Chao-Hua; Ma, Zhong-Lei; Zhang, Jing

    2016-01-01

    Sulfur (S) cross-linking styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foams show high shrinkage due to the cure reversion, leading to reduced yield and increased processing cost. In this paper, double cross-linking system by S and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was used to decrease the shrinkage of SBR foams. Most importantly, the synergy of double cross-linking agents was reported for the first time to our knowledge. The cell size and its distribution of SBR foams were investigated by FESEM images, which show the effect of DCP content on the cell structure of the SBR foams. The relationships between shrinkage and crystalline of SBR foams were analyzed by the synergy of double cross-linking agents, which were demonstrated by FTIR, Raman spectra, XRD, DSC and TGA. When the DCP content was 0.6 phr, the SBR foams exhibit excellent physical and mechanical properties such as low density (0.223 g/cm3), reduced shrinkage (2.25%) and compression set (10.96%), as well as elevated elongation at break (1.78 × 103%) and tear strength (54.63 N/mm). The results show that these properties are related to the double cross-linking system of SBR foams. Moreover, the double cross-linking SBR foams present high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties compared with the S cross-linking SBR foams. PMID:27841307

  1. The Synergy of Double Cross-linking Agents on the Properties of Styrene Butadiene Rubber Foams

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shao, Liang; Ji, Zhan-You; Ma, Jian-Zhong; Xue, Chao-Hua; Ma, Zhong-Lei; Zhang, Jing

    2016-11-01

    Sulfur (S) cross-linking styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) foams show high shrinkage due to the cure reversion, leading to reduced yield and increased processing cost. In this paper, double cross-linking system by S and dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was used to decrease the shrinkage of SBR foams. Most importantly, the synergy of double cross-linking agents was reported for the first time to our knowledge. The cell size and its distribution of SBR foams were investigated by FESEM images, which show the effect of DCP content on the cell structure of the SBR foams. The relationships between shrinkage and crystalline of SBR foams were analyzed by the synergy of double cross-linking agents, which were demonstrated by FTIR, Raman spectra, XRD, DSC and TGA. When the DCP content was 0.6 phr, the SBR foams exhibit excellent physical and mechanical properties such as low density (0.223 g/cm3), reduced shrinkage (2.25%) and compression set (10.96%), as well as elevated elongation at break (1.78 × 103%) and tear strength (54.63 N/mm). The results show that these properties are related to the double cross-linking system of SBR foams. Moreover, the double cross-linking SBR foams present high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties compared with the S cross-linking SBR foams.

  2. Copper-catalyzed radical carbooxygenation: alkylation and alkoxylation of styrenes.

    PubMed

    Liao, Zhixiong; Yi, Hong; Li, Zheng; Fan, Chao; Zhang, Xu; Liu, Jie; Deng, Zixin; Lei, Aiwen

    2015-01-01

    A simple copper-catalyzed direct radical carbooxygenation of styrenes is developed utilizing alkyl bromides as radical resources. This catalytic radical difunctionalization accomplishes both alkylation and alkoxylation of styrenes in one pot. A broad range of styrenes and alcohols are well tolerated in this transformation. The EPR experiment shows that alkyl halides could oxidize Cu(I) to Cu(II) in this transformation. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  3. Contribution made by multivariate curve resolution applied to gel permeation chromatography-Fourier transform infrared data for an in-depth characterization of styrene-butadiene rubber blends.

    PubMed

    Ruckebusch, C; Vilmin, F; Coste, N; Huvenne, J P

    2008-07-01

    We evaluate the contribution made by multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) for resolving gel permeation chromatography-Fourier transform infrared (GPC-FT-IR) data collected on butadiene rubber (BR) and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) blends in order to access in-depth knowledge of polymers along the molecular weight distribution (MWD). In the BR-SBR case, individual polymers differ in chemical composition but share almost the same MWD. Principal component analysis (PCA) gives a general overview of the data structure and attests to the feasibility of modeling blends as a binary system. MCR-ALS is then performed. It allows resolving the chromatographic coelution and validates the chosen methodology. For SBR-SBR blends, the problem is more challenging since the individual elastomers present the same chemical composition. Rank deficiency is detected from the PCA data structure analysis. MCR-ALS is thus performed on column-wise augmented matrices. It brings very useful insight into the composition of the analyzed blends. In particular, a weak change in the composition of individual SBR in the MWD's lowest mass region is revealed.

  4. Engineering Styrene Monooxygenase for Biocatalysis: Reductase-Epoxidase Fusion Proteins.

    PubMed

    Heine, Thomas; Tucker, Kathryn; Okonkwo, Nonye; Assefa, Berhanegebriel; Conrad, Catleen; Scholtissek, Anika; Schlömann, Michael; Gassner, George; Tischler, Dirk

    2017-04-01

    The enantioselective epoxidation of styrene and related compounds by two-component styrene monooxygenases (SMOs) has targeted these enzymes for development as biocatalysts. In the present work, we prepare genetically engineered fusion proteins that join the C-terminus of the epoxidase (StyA) to the N-terminus of the reductase (StyB) through a linker peptide and demonstrate their utility as biocatalysts in the synthesis of Tyrain purple and other indigoid dyes. A single-vector expression system offers a simplified platform for transformation and expansion of the catalytic function of styrene monooxygenases, and the resulting fusion proteins are self-regulated and couple efficiently NADH oxidation to styrene epoxidation. We find that the reductase domain proceeds through a sequential ternary-complex mechanism at low FAD concentration and a double-displacement mechanism at higher concentrations of FAD. Single-turnover studies indicate an observed rate constant for FAD-to-FAD hydride transfer of ~8 s -1 . This step is rate limiting in the styrene epoxidation reaction and helps to ensure that flavin reduction and styrene epoxidation reactions proceed without wasteful side reactions. Comparison of the reductase activity of the fusion proteins with the naturally occurring reductase, SMOB, and N-terminally histidine-tagged reductase, NSMOB, suggests that the observed changes in catalytic mechanism are due in part to an increase in flavin-binding affinity associated with the N-terminal extension of the reductase.

  5. Solubilization of human cells by the styrene-maleic acid copolymer: Insights from fluorescence microscopy.

    PubMed

    Dörr, Jonas M; van Coevorden-Hameete, Marleen H; Hoogenraad, Casper C; Killian, J Antoinette

    2017-11-01

    Extracting membrane proteins from biological membranes by styrene-maleic acid copolymers (SMAs) in the form of nanodiscs has developed into a powerful tool in membrane research. However, the mode of action of membrane (protein) solubilization in a cellular context is still poorly understood and potential specificity for cellular compartments has not been investigated. Here, we use fluorescence microscopy to visualize the process of SMA solubilization of human cells, exemplified by the immortalized human HeLa cell line. Using fluorescent protein fusion constructs that mark distinct subcellular compartments, we found that SMA solubilizes membranes in a concentration-dependent multi-stage process. While all major intracellular compartments were affected without a strong preference, plasma membrane solubilization was found to be generally slower than the solubilization of organelle membranes. Interestingly, some plasma membrane-localized proteins were more resistant against solubilization than others, which might be explained by their presence in specific membrane domains with differing properties. Our results support the general applicability of SMA for the isolation of membrane proteins from different types of (sub)cellular membranes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Solubilization of lipids and lipid phases by the styrene-maleic acid copolymer.

    PubMed

    Dominguez Pardo, Juan J; Dörr, Jonas M; Iyer, Aditya; Cox, Ruud C; Scheidelaar, Stefan; Koorengevel, Martijn C; Subramaniam, Vinod; Killian, J Antoinette

    2017-01-01

    A promising tool in membrane research is the use of the styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymer to solubilize membranes in the form of nanodiscs. Since membranes are heterogeneous in composition, it is important to know whether SMA thereby has a preference for solubilization of either specific types of lipids or specific bilayer phases. Here, we investigated this by performing partial solubilization of model membranes and analyzing the lipid composition of the solubilized fraction. We found that SMA displays no significant lipid preference in homogeneous binary lipid mixtures in the fluid phase, even when using lipids that by themselves show very different solubilization kinetics. By contrast, in heterogeneous phase-separated bilayers, SMA was found to have a strong preference for solubilization of lipids in the fluid phase as compared to those in either a gel phase or a liquid-ordered phase. Together the results suggest that (1) SMA is a reliable tool to characterize native interactions between membrane constituents, (2) any solubilization preference of SMA is not due to properties of individual lipids but rather due to properties of the membrane or membrane domains in which these lipids reside and (3) exploiting SMA resistance rather than detergent resistance may be an attractive approach for the isolation of ordered domains from biological membranes.

  7. Observations made during stretching, tearing and failure of NR (natural rubber) and SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber) loaded with various amounts of carbon black

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Goldberg, A.; Lesuer, D.R.; Patt, J.

    In order to effectively utilize fractography as an aid in identifying the influence of material and service (or test) parameters on material properties, one must first understand the origin of the morphological features developed during the tearing and fracturing of these elastomers. At our laboratory, we have made extensive fractographic studies while evaluating the effects of material formulations, temperature, and loading rates on the loading response, tearing energy, induced damage, and tearing phenomena in SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) containing different amounts of CB (Carbon Black) filler. We have also examined failures in tank track pads, as well as laboratory-tested samplesmore » cut from new track pads. In this paper we report on observations made during the actual stretching, tearing and failure of elastomeric samples pulled in tension at a constraint stroke-diplacement rate. 15 refs., 12 figs.« less

  8. Effect of carbon black composition with sludge palm oil on the curing characteristic and mechanical properties of natural rubber/styrene butadiene rubber compound

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mohamed, R.; Nurazzi, N. Mohd; Huzaifah, M.

    2017-07-01

    This study was conducted to investigate the possibility of utilizing sludge palm oil (SPO) as processing oil, with various amount of carbon black as its reinforcing filler, and its effects on the curing characteristics and mechanical properties of natural rubber/styrene butadiene rubber (NR/SBR) compound. Rubber compound with fixed 15 pphr of SPO loading, and different carbon black loading from 20 to 50 pphr, was prepared using two roll mills. The cure characteristics and mechanical tests that have been conducted are the scorch and cure time analysis, tensile strength and tear strength. Scorch time (ts5) and cure time (t90) of the compound increases with the increasing carbon black loading. The mechanical properties of NR/SBR compound viz. the tensile strength, modulus at 300% strain and tear strength were also improved by the increasing carbon black loading.

  9. Enhanced interfacial interaction and antioxidative behavior of novel halloysite nanotubes/silica hybrid supported antioxidant in styrene-butadiene rubber

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Jing; Luo, Yuanfang; Zhong, Bangchao; Hu, Dechao; Jia, Zhixin; Jia, Demin

    2018-05-01

    A novel antioxidant (HS-s-RT) to improve the mechanical properties and anti-aging performance of styrene-butadiene (SBR) composites was prepared by antioxidant intermediate p-aminodiphenylamine (RT) grafting on the surface of halloysite nanotubes/silica hybrid (HS) via the linkage of silane coupling agent. The analysis of SEM and rubber processing analyzer (RPA) demonstrated HS-s-RT was uniformly dispersed in SBR, and stronger interfacial interaction between HS-s-RT and SBR was formed. Consequently, SBR/HS-s-RT composites have improving mechanical properties. Furthermore, the test of the retention of mechanical properties, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR), and oxidation induction time (OIT) showed HS-s-RT can effectively improve the anti-aging effect of SBR composites than corresponding low molecular-weight antioxidant N-isopropyl-N‧-phenyl-4-phenylenediamin (4010NA). Then, the mechanism of thermo-oxidative aging of SBR/HS composites was also investigated, and the superior antioxidative efficiency is attributed to the uniform dispersion and excellent migration resistance of HS-s-RT. Hence, this novel antioxidant might open up new opportunities for the fabrication of high-performance rubber composites due to its superior anti-aging effect and reinforcement.

  10. Effects of heat treatments and UV exposures on mechanical properties of 3D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene specimens

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hughes, Shawn M.; Alamir, Mohammed; Neas, Brian; Alzahrani, Naif; Asmatulu, Ramazan

    2017-04-01

    Over the last few years, tremendous amount of research efforts has been conducted on 3D printing materials, methods and systems. Various 3D printer materials in different size, shape and geometry can be used for advanced designs, modeling, and manufacturing for different industrial applications. In the present study, dog bone shape specimen was designed via a CATIA CAD model, and then printed by a 3D printer using a polymeric filament (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene - ABS). Some of the prepared samples were heat treated at 40 °C, 60 °C, and 80 °C for 30 minutes, while the others were exposed to the UV light in a chamber for 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 days. The surface and mechanical properties of the conditioned samples were determined using water contact angle and tensile test units, respectively. The test results indicated that the heat treatment process increased the mechanical properties; however, the UV exposure tests significantly reduced the water contact angle and properties of the samples. During these studies, undergraduate engineering students were involved in the tests, and gained a lot of hands-on research experiences.

  11. Controlling Styrene Maleic Acid Lipid Particles through RAFT.

    PubMed

    Smith, Anton A A; Autzen, Henriette E; Laursen, Tomas; Wu, Vincent; Yen, Max; Hall, Aaron; Hansen, Scott D; Cheng, Yifan; Xu, Ting

    2017-11-13

    The ability of styrene maleic acid copolymers to dissolve lipid membranes into nanosized lipid particles is a facile method of obtaining membrane proteins in solubilized lipid discs while conserving part of their native lipid environment. While the currently used copolymers can readily extract membrane proteins in native nanodiscs, their highly disperse composition is likely to influence the dispersity of the discs as well as the extraction efficiency. In this study, reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer was used to control the polymer architecture and dispersity of molecular weights with a high-precision. Based on Monte Carlo simulations of the polymerizations, the monomer composition was predicted and allowed a structure-function analysis of the polymer architecture, in relation to their ability to assemble into lipid nanoparticles. We show that a higher degree of control of the polymer architecture generates more homogeneous samples. We hypothesize that low dispersity copolymers, with control of polymer architecture are an ideal framework for the rational design of polymers for customized isolation and characterization of integral membrane proteins in native lipid bilayer systems.

  12. The effectiveness of styrene-maleic acid (SMA) copolymers for solubilisation of integral membrane proteins from SMA-accessible and SMA-resistant membranes.

    PubMed

    Swainsbury, David J K; Scheidelaar, Stefan; Foster, Nicholas; van Grondelle, Rienk; Killian, J Antoinette; Jones, Michael R

    2017-10-01

    Solubilisation of biological lipid bilayer membranes for analysis of their protein complement has traditionally been carried out using detergents, but there is increasing interest in the use of amphiphilic copolymers such as styrene maleic acid (SMA) for the solubilisation, purification and characterisation of integral membrane proteins in the form of protein/lipid nanodiscs. Here we survey the effectiveness of various commercially-available formulations of the SMA copolymer in solubilising Rhodobacter sphaeroides reaction centres (RCs) from photosynthetic membranes. We find that formulations of SMA with a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of styrene to maleic acid are almost as effective as detergent in solubilising RCs, with the best solubilisation by short chain variants (<30kDa weight average molecular weight). The effectiveness of 10kDa 2:1 and 3:1 formulations of SMA to solubilise RCs gradually declined when genetically-encoded coiled-coil bundles were used to artificially tether normally monomeric RCs into dimeric, trimeric and tetrameric multimers. The ability of SMA to solubilise reaction centre-light harvesting 1 (RC-LH1) complexes from densely packed and highly ordered photosynthetic membranes was uniformly low, but could be increased through a variety of treatments to increase the lipid:protein ratio. However, proteins isolated from such membranes comprised clusters of complexes in small membrane patches rather than individual proteins. We conclude that short-chain 2:1 and 3:1 formulations of SMA are the most effective in solubilising integral membrane proteins, but that solubilisation efficiencies are strongly influenced by the size of the target protein and the density of packing of proteins in the membrane. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Organocatalytic atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral styrenes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zheng, Sheng-Cai; Wu, San; Zhou, Qinghai; Chung, Lung Wa; Ye, Liu; Tan, Bin

    2017-05-01

    Axially chiral compounds are widespread in biologically active compounds and are useful chiral ligands or organocatalysts in asymmetric catalysis. It is well-known that styrenes are one of the most abundant and principal feedstocks and thus represent excellent prospective building blocks for chemical synthesis. Driven by the development of atroposelective synthesis of axially chiral styrene derivatives, we discovered herein the asymmetric organocatalytic approach via direct Michael addition reaction of substituted diones/ketone esters/malononitrile to alkynals. The axially chiral styrene compounds were produced with good chemical yields, enantioselectivities and almost complete E/Z-selectivities through a secondary amine-catalysed iminium activation strategy under mild conditions. Such structural motifs are important precursors for further transformations into biologically active compounds and synthetic useful intermediates and may have potential applications in asymmetric synthesis as olefin ligands or organocatalysts.

  14. Biomonitoring of styrene occupational exposures: Biomarkers and determinants.

    PubMed

    Persoons, Renaud; Richard, Justine; Herve, Claire; Montlevier, Sarah; Marques, Marie; Maitre, Anne

    2018-06-22

    High styrene exposures are still experienced in various occupational settings, requesting regular exposure assessments. The aims of this study were to study occupational exposures in various industrial sectors and to determine factors influencing styrene urinary metabolites levels. Biomonitoring was conducted in 141 workers from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) manufacture, thermoplastic polymers production, vehicle repair shops and cured-in-place pipe lining (CIPP). Urinary styrene (StyU) as well as Mandelic (MA) / Phenyglyoxylic Acids (PGA) were quantified at the beginning and at the end of week, and multivariate linear regression models were used. StyU levels revealed very low, rarely exceeding 3 µg.L -1 . Highest concentrations of MA + PGA were observed in FRP sector, with levels reaching up to 1100 mg.g -1 of creatinine. Factors influencing end-of-week MA + PGA concentrations were levels at the beginning of week, open molding processes, proximity to the emission source, respiratory protection, styrene content in raw materials. Elevated levels were also observed during CIPP process, whereas thermoplastic injection and vehicle repair shop workers exhibited much lower exposures. Intervention on process (decreasing styrene proportion, using closed molding), protective equipment (local exhaust ventilation, respiratory protection) and individual practices (stringent safety rules) are expected to decrease occupational exposures. Urinary MA + PGA remain the most appropriate biomarkers for occupational biomonitoring. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  15. Comparison of mouse strains for susceptibility to styrene-induced hepatotoxicity and pneumotoxicity

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Carlson, G.P.

    1997-10-01

    Styrene is known to cause both hepatotoxicity and pneumotoxicity in mice. Strain differences have been reported by other investigators suggesting that Swiss mice are less susceptible than non-Swiss mice to styrene-induced liver damage. In this study, All and C57BL16 mice were found to be similar to non-Swiss albino (NSA) mice in susceptibility whereas CD-1 (Swiss) mice were more resistant to hepatotoxicity as assessed by serum sorbitol dehydrogenase levels and pneumotoxicity as determined by gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase and lactate dehydrogenase measurements in bronchoalveolar ravage fluid. Styrene was hepatotoxic in CD-1 mice treated with pyridine to induce CYP2E1. CYP2E1 apoprotein levels and p-nitrophenol hydroxylasemore » activities in control and pyridine-induced mice were similar in the two strains. Hepatic and pulmonary microsomal preparations from both strains metabolized styrene to styrene oxide at similar rates. CD-1 mice were as susceptible as the NSA mice to the effects of styrene oxide. The data suggest that there are no differences in the bioactivation of styrene to styrene oxide or innate susceptibility to the active metabolite that would account for the differences between the CD-1 and NSA mice. 26 refs., 6 tabs.« less

  16. Temperature-dependent micellar structures in poly(styrene-b-isoprene) diblock copolymer solutions near the critical micelle temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bang, Joona; Viswanathan, Karthik; Lodge, Timothy P.; Park, Moon Jeong; Char, Kookheon

    2004-12-01

    The temperature dependence of the micelle structures formed by poly(styrene-b-isoprene) (SI) diblock copolymers in the selective solvents diethyl phthalate (DEP) and tetradecane (C14), which are selective for the PS and PI blocks, respectively, have been investigated by small angle neutron scattering (SANS). Two nearly symmetric SI diblock copolymers, one with a perdeuterated PS block and the other with a perdeuterated PI block, were examined in both DEP and C14. The SANS scattering length density of the solvent was matched closely to either the core or the corona block. The resulting core and corona contrast data were fitted with a detailed model developed by Pedersen and co-workers. The fits provide quantitative information on micellar characteristics such as aggregation number, core size, overall size, solvent fraction in the core, and corona thickness. As temperature increases, the solvent selectivity decreases, leading to substantial solvent swelling of the core and a decrease in the aggregation number and core size. Both core and corona chains are able to relax their conformations near the critical micelle temperature due to a decrease in the interfacial tension, even though the corona chains are always under good solvent conditions.

  17. Photo-Patterned Ion Gel Electrolyte-Gated Thin Film Transistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choi, Jae-Hong; Gu, Yuanyan; Hong, Kihyun; Frisbie, C. Daniel; Lodge, Timothy P.

    2014-03-01

    We have developed a novel fabrication route to pattern electrolyte thin films in electrolyte-gated transistors (EGTs) using a chemically crosslinkable ABA-triblock copolymer ion gel. In the self-assembly of poly[(styrene-r-vinylbenzylazide)-b-ethylene oxide-b-(styrene-r-vinylbenzylazide)] (SOS-N3) triblock copolymer and the ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([EMI][TFSI]), the azide groups of poly(styrene-r-vinylbenzylazide) (PS-N3) end-blocks in the cores can be chemically cross-linked via UV irradiation (λ = 254 nm). Impedance spectroscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering confirmed that ion transport and microstructure of the ion gel are not affected by UV cross-linking. Using this chemical cross-linking strategy, we demonstrate a photo-patterning of ion gels through a patterned mask and the fabricated electrolyte-gated thin film transistors with photo-patterned ion gels as high-capacitance gate insulators exhibited high device performance (low operation voltages and high on/off current ratios).

  18. Mortality of a cohort of workers in the styrene-butadiene polymer manufacturing industry (1943-1982).

    PubMed Central

    Matanoski, G M; Santos-Burgoa, C; Schwartz, L

    1990-01-01

    A cohort of 12,110 male workers employed 1 or more years in eight styrene-butadiene polymer (SBR) manufacturing plants in the United States and Canada has been followed for mortality over a 40-year period, 1943 to 1982. The all-cause mortality of these workers was low [standardized mortality ratio (SMR) = 0.81] compared to that of the general population. However, some specific sites of cancers had SMRs that exceeded 1.00. These sites were then examined by major work divisions. The sites of interest included leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in whites. The SMRs for cancers of the digestive tract were higher than expected, especially esophageal cancer in whites and stomach cancer in blacks. The SMR for arteriosclerotic heart disease in black workers was significantly higher than would be expected based on general population rates. Employees were assigned to a work area based on job longest held. The SMRs for specific diseases differed by work area. Production workers showed increased SMRs for hematologic neoplasms and maintenance workers, for digestive cancers. A significant excess SMR for arteriosclerotic heart disease occurred only in black maintenance workers, although excess mortality from this disease occurred in blacks regardless of where they worked the longest. A significant excess SMR for rheumatic heart disease was associated with work in the combined, all-other work areas. For many causes of death, there were significant deficits in the SMRs. PMID:2401250

  19. Styrene vapor control systems in FRP yacht plants.

    PubMed

    Todd, W F

    1985-01-01

    The production of large (greater than 25-ft) fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) yachts has presented problems of styrene exposure in excess of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure level (OSHA PEL) of 100 ppm. Also, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is currently recommending a 10-hour workshift, 40-hour workweek time weighted average (TWA) of 50 ppm for styrene. Meeting this challenge will require a system of engineering, work practice, personal protective equipment, and monitoring control measures. NIOSH has performed a study of the engineering controls in three FRP yacht plants. Work practices and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) were also considered in the evaluation. The three systems evaluated included a dilution system, a local ventilation system, and a push-pull ventilation system. The cost of constructing and operating these systems was not evaluated in this study. Study results indicated that each type of ventilation system can meet the present PEL of 100 ppm styrene; however, it is not certain that these systems can meet a lower PEL of 50 ppm styrene.

  20. 40 CFR 721.9492 - Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9492 Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate...) The chemical substances identified generically as polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and...

  1. 40 CFR 721.9492 - Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9492 Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate...) The chemical substances identified generically as polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and...

  2. 40 CFR 721.9492 - Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9492 Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate...) The chemical substances identified generically as polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and...

  3. 40 CFR 721.9492 - Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9492 Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate...) The chemical substances identified generically as polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and...

  4. The effects of printing orientation on the electrochemical behaviour of 3D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)/carbon black electrodes.

    PubMed

    Bin Hamzah, Hairul Hisham; Keattch, Oliver; Covill, Derek; Patel, Bhavik Anil

    2018-06-14

    Additive manufacturing also known as 3D printing is being utilised in electrochemistry to reproducibly develop complex geometries with conductive properties. In this study, we explored if the electrochemical behavior of 3D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)/carbon black electrodes was influenced by printing direction. The electrodes were printed in both horizontal and vertical directions. The horizsontal direction resulted in a smooth surface (HPSS electrode) and a comparatively rougher surface (HPRS electrode) surface. Electrodes were characterized using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry. For various redox couples, the vertical printed (VP) electrode showed enhanced current response when compared the two electrode surfaces generated by horizontal print direction. No differences in the capacitive response was observed, indicating that the conductive surface area of all types of electrodes were identical. The VP electrode had reduced charge transfer resistance and uncompensated solution resistance when compared to the HPSS and HPRS electrodes. Overall, electrodes printed in a vertical direction provide enhanced electrochemical performance and our study indicates that print orientation is a key factor that can be used to enhance sensor performance.

  5. Co-recycling of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene waste plastic and nonmetal particles from waste printed circuit boards to manufacture reproduction composites.

    PubMed

    Sun, Zhixing; Shen, Zhigang; Zhang, Xiaojing; Ma, Shulin

    2015-01-01

    This study investigated the feasibility of using acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) waste plastic and nonmetal particles from waste printed circuit boards (WPCB) to manufacture reproduction composites (RC), with the aim of co-recycling these two waste resources. The composites were prepared in a twin-crew extruder and investigated by means of mechanical testing, in situ flexural observation, thermogravimatric analysis, and dimensional stability evaluation. The results showed that the presence of nonmetal particles significantly improved the mechanical properties and the physical performance of the RC. A loading of 30 wt% nonmetal particles could achieve a flexural strength of 72.6 MPa, a flexural modulus of 3.57 GPa, and an impact strength of 15.5 kJ/m2. Moreover, it was found that the application of maleic anhydride-grafted ABS as compatilizer could effectively promote the interfacial adhesion between the ABS plastic and the nonmetal particles. This research provides a novel method to reuse waste ABS and WPCB nonmetals for manufacturing high value-added product, which represents a promising way for waste recycling and resolving the environmental problem.

  6. 40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

  7. 40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

  8. 40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

  9. 40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

  10. 40 CFR 721.10151 - Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... polymer (generic). 721.10151 Section 721.10151 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY... Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10151 Modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (generic). (a) Chemical... as modified styrene, divinylbenzene polymer (PMN P-07-642) is subject to reporting under this section...

  11. Occupational Styrene Exposure on Auditory Function Among Adults: A Systematic Review of Selected Workers.

    PubMed

    Pleban, Francis T; Oketope, Olutosin; Shrestha, Laxmi

    2017-12-01

    A review study was conducted to examine the adverse effects of styrene, styrene mixtures, or styrene and/or styrene mixtures and noise on the auditory system in humans employed in occupational settings. The search included peer-reviewed articles published in English language involving human volunteers spanning a 25-year period (1990-2015). Studies included peer review journals, case-control studies, and case reports. Animal studies were excluded. An initial search identified 40 studies. After screening for inclusion, 13 studies were retrieved for full journal detail examination and review. As a whole, the results range from no to mild associations between styrene exposure and auditory dysfunction, noting relatively small sample sizes. However, four studies investigating styrene with other organic solvent mixtures and noise suggested combined exposures to both styrene organic solvent mixtures may be more ototoxic than exposure to noise alone. There is little literature examining the effect of styrene on auditory functioning in humans. Nonetheless, findings suggest public health professionals and policy makers should be made aware of the future research needs pertaining to hearing impairment and ototoxicity from styrene. It is recommended that chronic styrene-exposed individuals be routinely evaluated with a comprehensive audiological test battery to detect early signs of auditory dysfunction.

  12. [Degradation of styrene by coupling ultraviolet and biofiltration].

    PubMed

    Sha, Hao-Lei; Yang, Guo-Jing; Xia, Jing-Fen

    2013-12-01

    Purification of styrene by ultraviolet (UV)-biofiltration was studied in this paper. The light source and the biofilm carrier were ozone producing lamp at 185 nm and the peat, palm fiber, porous acticarbon, respectively. Styrene inlet concentration was controlled between 320-583 mg x m(-3), and the removal efficiency remained above 95% after stabilization. The UV converted styrene into more soluble and biodegradable intermediates, such as alcohol, aldehyde and acid, thus the performance of biofilter can be improved. In the stable operation stage, the variation of inlet concentration did not affect the removal efficiency when the total residence time (TRT) was long, however, the inlet concentration obviously affected the removal efficiency when the TRT decreased. The removal load of coupling system increased linearly with increasing inlet load, and the removal efficiency was higher than 95% under a TRT of 102 s. When TRT was 68 s and the inlet load was low, the variation of removal load complied with the law described above, but it gradually deviated from the straight line and tended to stabilized at a certain value when the inlet load became higher than 30 g x (m3 x h)(-). If considering the fluctuation of styrene concentration only, the contribution rate of ultraviolet photolysis to styrene removal was greater than that of the biofilter, and the removal effect could be restored on the fourth day, after closing the system for ten days and restarting.

  13. Communication: Molecular-level insights into asymmetric triblock copolymers: Network and phase development

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tallury, Syamal S.; Mineart, Kenneth P.; Woloszczuk, Sebastian; Williams, David N.; Thompson, Russell B.; Pasquinelli, Melissa A.; Banaszak, Michal; Spontak, Richard J.

    2014-09-01

    Molecularly asymmetric triblock copolymers progressively grown from a parent diblock copolymer can be used to elucidate the phase and property transformation from diblock to network-forming triblock copolymer. In this study, we use several theoretical formalisms and simulation methods to examine the molecular-level characteristics accompanying this transformation, and show that reported macroscopic-level transitions correspond to the onset of an equilibrium network. Midblock conformational fractions and copolymer morphologies are provided as functions of copolymer composition and temperature.

  14. Small Angle Neutron Scattering Studies on Blends of Poly (Styrene-ran-Vinyl Phenol) with Liquid Crystalline Polyurethane

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mehta, Rujul

    2005-03-01

    Molecular composites, composed of uniformly dispersed rigid-rod liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) molecules in a flexible amorphous polymer matrix, have remained hitherto elusive due to a scarcity of miscible systems containing a LCP and an amorphous polymer. The production of such a blend, with an experimentally accessible miscibility window, has become possible by modifying the architecture of the flexible polymer, so as to induce favorable intermolecular hydrogen bonding. Specifically, liquid crystalline polyurethanes (LCPU) are found to be miscible with a copolymer of styrene and vinyl phenol; with optimum hydrogen bonding between the carbonyl groups of the urethane linkages and the hydroxyl groups present in the styrenic matrix. Availability of a truly miscible molecular composite presents a unique opportunity of studying the confirmation of polymer chains containing rigid-rods that are uniformly dispersed in a flexible coil matrix. A system consisting of the LCPU and the deuterated styrenic copolymer containing 20% vinyl phenol is examined by Small Angle Neutron Scattering at the National Center for Neutron Research at Gaithersburg and Technology, and the Institute of Solid State Research (IFF) at Jülich. Scattering curves for neat dPS-VPh did not fit the Debye-Bueche model; indicating complex structure. A two correlation length Debye-Bueche model was considered to accommodate for this nonlinear behavior. This model utilizes four fitting parameters, including two correlation lengths a1 and a2, corresponding to a Debye-Bueche model and Guinier model.

  15. 40 CFR 721.9492 - Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl... Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.9492 Polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate... generically as polymers of styrene, cyclohexyl methacrylate and substituted methacrylate (PMNs P-97-143/144...

  16. Cooperative effects for CYP2E1 differ between styrene and its metabolites

    PubMed Central

    Hartman, Jessica H.; Boysen, Gunnar; Miller, Grover P.

    2014-01-01

    Cooperative interactions are frequently observed in the metabolism of drugs and pollutants by cytochrome P450s; nevertheless, the molecular determinants for cooperativity remain elusive. Previously, we demonstrated that steady-state styrene metabolism by CYP2E1 exhibits positive cooperativity.We hypothesized that styrene metabolites have lower affinity than styrene toward CYP2E1 and limited ability to induce cooperative effects during metabolism. To test the hypothesis, we determined the potency and mechanism of inhibition for styrene and its metabolites toward oxidation of 4-nitrophenol using CYP2E1 Supersomes® and human liver microsomes.Styrene inhibited the reaction through a mixed cooperative mechanism with high affinity for the catalytic site (67 μM) and lower affinity for the cooperative site (1100 μM), while increasing substrate turnover at high concentrations. Styrene oxide and 4-vinylphenol possessed similar affinity for CYP2E1. Styrene oxide behaved cooperatively like styrene, but 4-vinylphenol decreased turnover at high concentrations. Styrene glycol was a very poor competitive inhibitor. Among all compounds, there was a positive correlation with binding and hydrophobicity.Taken together, these findings for CYP2E1 further validate contributions of cooperative mechanisms to metabolic processes, demonstrate the role of molecular structure on those mechanisms and underscore the potential for heterotropic cooperative effects between different compounds. PMID:23327532

  17. Structure-toxicity relationship study of para-halogenated styrene analogues in CYP2E1 transgenic cells

    PubMed Central

    Chung, Jou-Ku; Shen, Shuijie; Jiang, Zhiteng; Yuan, Wei; Zheng, Jiang

    2012-01-01

    Styrene is one of the most important industrial intermediates consumed in the world and is mainly used as a monomer for reinforced plastics and rubber. Styrene has been found to be hepatotoxic and pneumotoxic in humans and experimental animals. The toxicity of styrene is suggested to be metabolism-dependent. Styrene-7,8-oxide has been considered as the major metabolite responsible for styrene-induced cytotoxicity. The objective of the study was to investigate the correlation between cytotoxicity of styrene and chemical and biochemical properties of the vinyl group of styrene by development of structure activity relationships (SAR). 4-Fluorostyrene, 4-chlorostyrene and 4-bromostyrene were selected for the SAR study. Cytotoxicity of styrene and the halogenated styrene derivatives with an order of 4-bromostyrene > 4-chlorostyrene > 4-fluorostyrene ≈ styrene was observed in CYP2E1 transgenic cells. Similar orders in the efficiency of the metabolism of styrene and the halogenated styrene analogues to their oxides and in the electrophilicity of the corresponding oxides were observed. Additionally, the order of the potency of cellular glutathione depletion and the degree of protein adduction induced by styrene and the halogenated styrenes were consistent with that of their cytotoxicities. The wild-type cells were less susceptible to the toxicity of the corresponding model compounds than CYP2E1 cells. The present study provided insight into the roles of the biochemical and chemical properties of styrene in its cytotoxicity. PMID:22366341

  18. Comparing in situ removal strategies for improving styrene bioproduction.

    PubMed

    McKenna, Rebekah; Moya, Luis; McDaniel, Matthew; Nielsen, David R

    2015-01-01

    As an important conventional monomer compound, the biological production of styrene carries significant promise with respect to creating novel sustainable materials. Since end-product toxicity presently limits styrene production by previously engineered Escherichia coli, in situ product removal by both solvent extraction and gas stripping were explored as process-based strategies for circumventing its inhibitory effects. In solvent extraction, the addition of bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate offered the greatest productivity enhancement, allowing net volumetric production of 836 ± 64 mg/L to be reached, representing a 320 % improvement over single-phase cultures. Gas stripping rates, meanwhile, were controlled by rates of bioreactor agitation and, to a greater extent, aeration. A periodic gas stripping protocol ultimately enabled up to 561 ± 15 mg/L styrene to be attained. Lastly, by relieving the effects of styrene toxicity, new insight was gained regarding subsequent factors limiting its biosynthesis in E. coli and strategies for future strain improvement are discussed.

  19. Degree of Mechanochemical Devulcanization of Model Styrene-Butadiene Rubber Compounds Containing Different Amount of Poly-, Di- and Monosulphidic Bonds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sangari, Samra; Anita, Hill; Dumitru, Pavel

    2004-03-01

    There have been significant attempts to devulcanize waste elastomers to facilitate reusing these valuable resources in applications requiring the unique properties of rubber. The difficulty in recycling of elastomers has traditionally been with devulcanizing the elastomer without comprising its properties due to degradation of main chains. This research aimed to devulcanize model styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) compounds, which had various amounts of poly-, di- and monosulfidic crosslinks using a mechanochemical process. Three model compounds were prepared using SBR using a laboratory two-roll mill. They were then vulcanized in a compression molding press at 140r C. The prepared vulcanized compounds were then ground and devulcanized in an internal mixer using a chemical mixture at a constant rotor speed and temperature. The crosslink density of the compounds before and after the devulcanization was calculated using volume-swelling measurements. The obtained data was used to establish the correlation between crosslink density of the compounds and the degree of devulcanization. The results showed that mechanochemical devulcanization caused a significant decrease in the crosslink density of the compounds by breaking the sulfidic linkages. The break up of polysulfidic crosslinks was predominant, meaning that mechanochemical process selectively affected different types of crosslinks.

  20. Poly(styrene)-b-poly(DL-lactide) copolymer-based nanoparticles for anticancer drug delivery

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Jae-Young; Kim, Jung Sun; Cho, Hyun-Jong; Kim, Dae-Duk

    2014-01-01

    Poly(styrene)-b-poly(DL-lactide) (PS-PDLLA) copolymer-based nanoparticles (NPs) of a narrow size distribution, negative zeta potential, and spherical shape were fabricated for the delivery of docetaxel (DCT). The particle size was consistently maintained in serum for 24 hours and a sustained drug release pattern was observed for 10 days in the tested formulations. The cytotoxicity of the developed blank NPs was negligible in prostate cancer (PC-3) cells. Cellular uptake and distribution of the constructed NPs containing a hydrophobic fluorescent dye was monitored by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) for 24 hours. Anti-tumor efficacy of the PS-PDLLA/DCT NPs in PC-3 cells was significantly more potent than that of the group treated with commercially available DCT, Taxotere® (P<0.05). Blood biochemistry tests showed that no serious toxicity was observed with the blank NPs in the liver and kidney. In a pharmacokinetic study of DCT in rats, in vivo clearance of PS-PDLLA/DCT NPs decreased while the half-life in blood increased compared to the Taxotere-treated group (P<0.05). The PS-PDLLA NPs are expected to be a biocompatible and efficient nano-delivery system for anticancer drugs. PMID:24940058

  1. Occupational styrene exposure induces stress-responsive genes involved in cytoprotective and cytotoxic activities.

    PubMed

    Strafella, Elisabetta; Bracci, Massimo; Staffolani, Sara; Manzella, Nicola; Giantomasi, Daniele; Valentino, Matteo; Amati, Monica; Tomasetti, Marco; Santarelli, Lory

    2013-01-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of a panel of genes involved in toxicology in response to styrene exposure at levels below the occupational standard setting. Workers in a fiber glass boat industry were evaluated for a panel of stress- and toxicity-related genes and associated with biochemical parameters related to hepatic injury. Urinary styrene metabolites (MA+PGA) of subjects and environmental sampling data collected for air at workplace were used to estimate styrene exposure. Expression array analysis revealed massive upregulation of genes encoding stress-responsive proteins (HSPA1L, EGR1, IL-6, IL-1β, TNSF10 and TNFα) in the styrene-exposed group; the levels of cytokines released were further confirmed in serum. The exposed workers were then stratified by styrene exposure levels. EGR1 gene upregulation paralleled the expression and transcriptional protein levels of IL-6, TNSF10 and TNFα in styrene exposed workers, even at low level. The activation of the EGR1 pathway observed at low-styrene exposure was associated with a slight increase of hepatic markers found in highly exposed subjects, even though they were within normal range. The ALT and AST levels were not affected by alcohol consumption, and positively correlated with urinary styrene metabolites as evaluated by multiple regression analysis. The pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNFα are the primary mediators of processes involved in the hepatic injury response and regeneration. Here, we show that styrene induced stress responsive genes involved in cytoprotection and cytotoxicity at low-exposure, that proceed to a mild subclinical hepatic toxicity at high-styrene exposure.

  2. Occupational Styrene Exposure Induces Stress-Responsive Genes Involved in Cytoprotective and Cytotoxic Activities

    PubMed Central

    Strafella, Elisabetta; Bracci, Massimo; Staffolani, Sara; Manzella, Nicola; Giantomasi, Daniele; Valentino, Matteo; Amati, Monica; Tomasetti, Marco; Santarelli, Lory

    2013-01-01

    Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of a panel of genes involved in toxicology in response to styrene exposure at levels below the occupational standard setting. Methods Workers in a fiber glass boat industry were evaluated for a panel of stress- and toxicity-related genes and associated with biochemical parameters related to hepatic injury. Urinary styrene metabolites (MA+PGA) of subjects and environmental sampling data collected for air at workplace were used to estimate styrene exposure. Results Expression array analysis revealed massive upregulation of genes encoding stress-responsive proteins (HSPA1L, EGR1, IL-6, IL-1β, TNSF10 and TNFα) in the styrene-exposed group; the levels of cytokines released were further confirmed in serum. The exposed workers were then stratified by styrene exposure levels. EGR1 gene upregulation paralleled the expression and transcriptional protein levels of IL-6, TNSF10 and TNFα in styrene exposed workers, even at low level. The activation of the EGR1 pathway observed at low-styrene exposure was associated with a slight increase of hepatic markers found in highly exposed subjects, even though they were within normal range. The ALT and AST levels were not affected by alcohol consumption, and positively correlated with urinary styrene metabolites as evaluated by multiple regression analysis. Conclusion The pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNFα are the primary mediators of processes involved in the hepatic injury response and regeneration. Here, we show that styrene induced stress responsive genes involved in cytoprotection and cytotoxicity at low-exposure, that proceed to a mild subclinical hepatic toxicity at high-styrene exposure. PMID:24086524

  3. Leaching of styrene and other aromatic compounds in drinking water from PS bottles.

    PubMed

    Ahmad, Maqbool; Bajahlan, Ahmad S

    2007-01-01

    Bottled water may not be safer, or healthier, than tap water. The present studies have proved that styrene and some other aromatic compounds leach continuously from polystyrene (PS) bottles used locally for packaging. Water sapmles in contact with PS were extracted by a preconcentration technique called as "purge and trap" and analysed by gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC/MS). Eleven aromatic compounds were identified in these studies. Maximum concentration of styrene in PS bottles was 29.5 microg/L. Apart from styrene, ethyl benzene, toluene and benzene were also quantified but their concentrations were much less than WHO guide line values. All other compounds were in traces. Quality of plastic and storage time were the major factor in leaching of styrene. Concentration of styrene was increased to 69.53 microg/L after one-year storage. In Styrofoam and PS cups studies, hot water was found to be contaminated with styrene and other aromatic compounds. It was observed that temperature played a major role in the leaching of styrene monomer from Styrofoam cups. Paper cups were found to be safe for hot drinks.

  4. Reclamation of post-consumer plastics for development of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene based nanocomposites with nanoclay

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zicans, Janis; Meri, Remo Merijs; Ivanova, Tatjana; Berzina, Rita; Saldabola, Ruuta; Maksimov, Robert

    2016-05-01

    Suitability of recycled acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (R-ABS) and recycled polycarbonate (R-PC) for the development of polymer matrix nanocomposites with organically modified nanoclay (OMMT) is evaluated in comparison to virgin polymers (V-ABS and V-PC) based systems. The influence of OMMT content on the structure as well as calorimetric, mechanical and thermal properties of virgin and recycled polymers containing systems is revealed. Increase in stiffness and strength of virgin and recycled polymers based systems is observed along with rising nanoclay content. However, it is observed that reinforcing efficiency of clays on the R-ABS containing systems is reduced to certain extent in comparison to those, based on virgin polymers. It is shown, that in the presence of OMMT approximation of glass transition temperatures of both polymeric components is observed, which can testify about certain improvement of compatibility between PC and ABS. Increment of the modulus of elasticity and yield strength of the nanocomposites is associated with anisodiametric shape of OMMT, as well as with intercalation of polymer within the interlaminar space of the clay nanoparticles. It is also demonstrated that addition of nanoclay improves thermogravimetric behavior of the investigated compositions. Consequently, it is suggested that nanoclays can be used as promising functional additives and replace halogenated flame-retardants, without reducing mechanical properties of the composites.

  5. Formation of styrene dependent on fermentation management during wheat beer production.

    PubMed

    Schwarz, Katrin J; Stübner, René; Methner, Frank-Jürgen

    2012-10-15

    Styrene is formed by the thermal decarboxylation of cinnamic acid during wort boiling or by enzymatic decarboxylation during fermentation. The enzymatic reactions proceed in parallel to the decarboxylation of ferulic- and p-cumaric acid to 4-vinylguaiacol and 4-vinylphenol by the same decarboxylase enzyme. However, the formation of styrene occurs much faster and all available cinnamic acid in wort was converted completely within a few hours. Moreover, the comparison of various manufacturing parameters shows that a higher fermentation temperature of 25 °C compared to 16 °C and an open fermentation management lead to a rapid decrease of styrene. This allows minimising the content of styrene in beer while maintaining the typical wheat beer flavours. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Estrogenic reduction of styrene monomer degraded by Phanerochaete chrysosporium KFRI 20742.

    PubMed

    Lee, Jae-Won; Lee, Soo-Min; Hong, Eui-Ju; Jeung, Eui-Bae; Kang, Ha-Young; Kim, Myung-Kil; Choi, In-Gyu

    2006-04-01

    The characteristic biodegradation of monomeric styrene by Phanerochaete chrysosporium KFRI 20742, Trametes versicolor KFRI 20251 and Daldinia concentrica KFRI 40-1 was carried out to examine the resistance, its degradation efficiency and metabolites analysis. The estrogenic reduction effect of styrene by the fungi was also evaluated. The mycelium growth of fungi differentiated depending on the concentration levels of styrene. Additionally P. chrysosporium KFRI 20742 showed superior mycelium growth at less than 200 mg/l, while D. concentrica KFRI 40-1 was more than 200 mg/l. The degradation efficiency reached 99% during one day of incubation for all the fungi. Both manganese-dependent peroxidase and laccase activities in liquid medium were the highest at the initial stage of incubation, whereas the lowest was after the addition of styrene. However, both activities were gradually recovered after. The major metabolites of styrene by P. chrysosporium KFRI 20742 were 2-phenyl ethanol, benzoic acid, cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione, butanol and succinic acid. From one to seven days of incubating the fungi, the expression of pS2 mRNA widely known as an estrogen response gene was decreased down to the level of baseline after one day. Also, the estrogenic effect of styrene completely disappeared after treatment with supernatant of P. chrysosporium KFRI 20742 from one week of culture down to the levels of vehicle.

  7. Influence of temperature on styrene emission from a vinyl ester resin thermoset composite material.

    PubMed

    Crawford, Shaun; Lungu, Claudiu T

    2011-08-15

    Composite materials made with vinyl ester resins are lighter, stronger and corrosion resistant compared to most metals, and are increasingly being used as building materials and in public transportation. Styrene monomer is used as both a diluent and strengthener in the production of vinyl ester resin (VER) composites. Some researchers contend that free styrene in VER composites is available to diffuse out of the material into air, perhaps leading to adverse health effects via inhalation exposures in humans, yet there is no known data on styrene emissions from these materials in the literature. In this study, a typical VER composite made with resin containing 38% by weight styrene, reinforced with E-glass fiber and formed using a vacuum assisted resin transfer method was characterized for styrene emissions by environmental test chamber (ETC) methodology. Styrene concentrations in the ETC were measured over a temperature range of 10 to 50 °C. Initial evaporative styrene emissions increase with increasing temperature. There is a nearly linear relationship in the total mass of styrene emitted and emission factor as emissions increase with increasing temperature. Styrene emission factors appear to vary for different materials, which could indicate more complex processes or the influence of material physical properties on emission rates. These results can be used to validate and improve mass transfer emission models for the prediction of volatile organic compound concentrations in indoor environments. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  8. EVALUATION OF TRICKLE-BED AIR BIOFILTER PERFORMANCE FOR STYRENE REMOVAL

    EPA Science Inventory

    A pilot-scale trickle-bed air biofilter (TBAB) was evaluated for the removal of styrene from a waste gas stream. Six-millimeter (6 mm) Celite pellets (R-635) were used as the biological attachment medium. The operating parameters considered in the study included the styrene vol...

  9. Company-level, semi-quantitative assessment of occupational styrene exposure when individual data are not available.

    PubMed

    Kolstad, Henrik A; Sønderskov, Jette; Burstyn, Igor

    2005-03-01

    In epidemiological research, self-reported information about determinants and levels of occupational exposures is difficult to obtain, especially if the disease under study has a high mortality rate or follow-up has exceeded several years. In this paper, we present a semi-quantitative exposure assessment strategy for nested case-control studies of styrene exposure among workers of the Danish reinforced plastics industry when no information on job title, task or other indicators of individual exposure were readily available from cases and controls. The strategy takes advantage of the variability in styrene exposure level and styrene exposure probability across companies. The study comprised 1522 cases of selected malignancies and neurodegenerative diseases and controls employed in 230 reinforced plastics companies and other related industries. Between 1960 and 1996, 3057 measurements of styrene exposure level obtained from 191 companies, were identified. Mixed effects models were used to estimate expected styrene exposure levels by production characteristics for all companies. Styrene exposure probability within each company was estimated for all but three cases and controls from the fraction of laminators, which was reported by a sample of 945 living colleagues of the cases and controls and by employers and dealers of plastic raw materials. The estimates were validated from a subset of 427 living cases and controls that reported their own work as laminators in the industry. We computed styrene exposure scores that integrated estimated styrene exposure level and styrene exposure probability. Product (boats), process (hand and spray lamination) and calendar year period were the major determinants of styrene exposure level. Within-company styrene exposure variability increased by calendar year and was accounted for when computing the styrene exposure scores. Exposure probability estimates based on colleagues' reports showed the highest predictive values in the

  10. 40 CFR 721.3800 - Formaldehyde, condensated polyoxyethylene fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... polyoxyethylene fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene oxide adduct. 721.3800 Section 721.3800... Formaldehyde, condensated polyoxyethylene fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene oxide adduct. (a... generically as formaldehyde, condensated polyoxyethylene fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene...

  11. Polymerization of styrene with cyclopentadienyl nickel complex/methylaluminoxane

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Dongping; Zhang, Danfeng

    2017-09-01

    Polystyrene was synthesized by Cp(CH2CH2OCH3)NiCl(PPh3) in the presence of methylaluminoxane (MAO). This complex displayed a very high activity for styrene polymerization up to 107 g.mol-1Nih-1. 76.6% styrene was converted to polystyrene (PS) with an average molecular (Mn) of 1.13×105 at 50 °C in 30 min. The structure of the obtained polymer was characterized by 1H NMR and FT-IR.

  12. Occupational styrene exposure for twelve product categories in the reinforced-plastics industry.

    PubMed

    Lemasters, G K; Carson, A; Samuels, S J

    1985-08-01

    Approximately 1500 occupational styrene exposure values from 28 reinforced-plastic manufacturers were collected retrospectively from companies and state and federal agencies. This report describes the major types of manufacturing processes within the reinforced-plastics industry and reports on the availability, collection and analysis of historical exposure information. Average exposure to styrene in most open-mold companies (24-82 ppm) was generally 2-3 times the exposure in press-mold companies (11-26 ppm). Manufacturers of smaller boats had mean styrene exposures of 82 ppm as compared to 37 ppm for yacht companies. There was considerable overlap in styrene exposure among job titles classified as directly exposed within open- and press-mold processing.

  13. POTENTIAL FOR REDUCING STYRENE EXPOSURES FROM COPIED PAPER THROUGH USE OF LOW-EMITTING TONERS

    EPA Science Inventory

    The paper reports results of tests, conducted using 53-L chambers to determine styrene emission rates from freshly copied paper produced on a single photocopier using two toners manufactured for the copier having different styrene contents. Copied-paper styrene emissions with bot...

  14. Mortality among styrene-exposed workers in the reinforced plastic boatbuilding industry.

    PubMed

    Ruder, Avima M; Meyers, Alysha R; Bertke, Stephen J

    2016-02-01

    We updated mortality through 2011 for 5203 boat-building workers potentially exposed to styrene, and analysed mortality among 1678 employed a year or more between 1959 and 1978. The a priori hypotheses: excess leukaemia and lymphoma would be found. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and 95% CIs and standardised rate ratios (SRRs) used Washington State rates and a person-years analysis programme, LTAS.NET. The SRR analysis compared outcomes among tertiles of estimated cumulative potential styrene exposure. Overall, 598 deaths (SMR=0.96, CI 0.89 to 1.04) included excess lung (SMR=1.23, CI 0.95 to 1.56) and ovarian cancer (SMR 3.08, CI 1.00 to 7.19), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (SMR=1.15, CI 0.81 to 1.58). Among 580 workers with potential high-styrene exposure, COPD mortality increased 2-fold (SMR=2.02, CI 1.08 to 3.46). COPD was more pronounced among those with potential high-styrene exposure. However, no outcome was related to estimated cumulative styrene exposure, and there was no change when latency was taken into account. We found no excess leukaemia or lymphoma mortality. As in most occupational cohort studies, lack of information on lifestyle factors or other employment was a substantial limitation although we excluded from the analyses those (n=3525) who worked <1 year. Unanticipated excess ovarian cancer mortality could be a chance finding. Comparing subcohorts with potential high-styrene and low-styrene exposure, COPD mortality SRR was elevated while lung cancer SRR was not, suggesting that smoking was not the only cause for excess COPD mortality. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  15. Use of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for the determination of polycarbonate (PC) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) concentrations in PC/ABS plastics from e-waste.

    PubMed

    Costa, Vinicius Câmara; Aquino, Francisco Wendel Batista; Paranhos, Caio Marcio; Pereira-Filho, Edenir Rodrigues

    2017-12-01

    Due to the continual increase in waste generated from electronic devices, the management of plastics, which represents between 10 and 30% by weight of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE or e-waste), becomes indispensable in terms of environmental and economic impacts. Considering the importance of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and their blends in the electronics and other industries, this study presents a new application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for the fast and direct determination of PC and ABS concentrations in blends of these plastics obtained from samples of e-waste. From the LIBS spectra acquired for the PC/ABS blend, multivariate calibration models were built using partial least squares (PLS) regression. In general, it was possible to infer that the relative errors between the theoretical or reference and predicted values for the spiked samples were lower than 10%. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Letter to the Editor: Styrene-producing microbes in food-stuff

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    An article was published in Journal of Food Science, August 2009 (Vol. 74, Nr 6) entitled “Natural formation of styrene by cinnamon mold flora”. In the article, the authors reported on the production of styrene from several fungi typically found on cinnamon, and used cinnamic acid and similar analog...

  17. Kinetics of styrene biodegradation by Pseudomonas sp. E-93486.

    PubMed

    Gąszczak, Agnieszka; Bartelmus, Grażyna; Greń, Izabela

    2012-01-01

    The research into kinetics of styrene biodegradation by bacterial strain Pseudomonas sp. E-93486 coming from VTT Culture Collection (Finland) was presented in this work. Microbial growth tests in the presence of styrene as the sole carbon and energy source were performed both in batch and continuous cultures. Batch experiments were conducted for initial concentration of styrene in the liquid phase changed in the range of 5-90 g m(-3). The Haldane model was found to be the best to fit the kinetic data, and the estimated constants of the equation were: μ (m) = 0.1188 h(-1), K(S) = 5.984 mg l(-1), and K (i) = 156.6 mg l(-1). The yield coefficient mean value [Formula in text] for the batch culture was 0.72 g(dry cells weight) (g(substrate))(-1). The experiments conducted in a chemostat at various dilution rates (D = 0.035-0.1 h(-1)) made it possible to determine the value of the coefficient for maintenance metabolism m (d) = 0.0165 h(-1) and the maximum yield coefficient value [Formula in text]. Chemostat experiments confirmed the high value of yield coefficient [Formula in text] observed in the batch culture. The conducted experiments showed high activity of the examined strain in the styrene biodegradation process and a relatively low sensitivity to inhibition of its growth at higher concentrations of styrene in the solution. Such exceptional features of Pseudomonas sp. E-93486 make this bacterial strain the perfect candidate for technical applications.

  18. Effects of PEO-PPO-PEO Triblock Copolymers on Phospholipid Membrane Integrity under Osmotic Stress

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Jia-Yu; Chin, Jaemin; Marks, Jeremy D.; Lee, Ka Yee C.

    2010-01-01

    The effects of PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymers, mainly Poloxamer 188, on phospholipid membrane integrity under osmotic gradients were explored using giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Fluorescence leakage assays showed two opposing effects of P188 on the structural integrity of GUVs depending on the duration of their incubation time. A two-state transition mechanism of interaction between the triblock copolymers and the phospholipid membrane is proposed: an adsorption (I) and an insertion (II) state. While the triblock copolymer in state I acts to moderately retard the leakage, their insertion in state II perturbs the lipid packing, thus increasing the membrane permeability. Our results suggest that the biomedical application of PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymers, either as cell membrane resealing agents or as accelerators for drug delivery, is directed by the delicate balance between these two states. PMID:20666423

  19. EVALUATION OF STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM A SHOWER STALL/BATHTUB MANUFACTURING FACILITY

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of emissions measurements carried out at a representative facility (Eljer Plumbingware in Wilson, NC) that manufactures polyester-resin-reinforced shower stalls and bathtubs by spraying styrene-based resins onto molds in vented, open, spray booths. Styren...

  20. Biofiltration of air contaminated by styrene vapors on inorganic filtering media: an experimental study.

    PubMed

    St-Pierre, Marie-Claude Dion; Avalos Ramirez, Antonio; Heitz, Michèle

    2009-05-01

    This paper presents a study on the biofiltration of styrene by using two inorganic filtering materials. The effects of styrene inlet load and nitrogen concentration present in the nutrient solution on biofilter performance were studied. The styrene inlet concentration was varied from 65 to 1115 parts per million by volume (ppmv), whereas the contaminated airflow rate was fixed at 1 m3/hr. The nitrogen concentration in nutrient solution was varied from 1 to 4 gN/L. The maximum elimination capacity obtained was 105 g/m3-hr, which corresponded to a removal efficiency of 80% for a styrene inlet load of 130 g/m3-hr. This study shows that the nitrogen content in the nutrient solution affects the removal rate of styrene, with an optimal nitrogen concentration of 3 gN/L. The performance comparison between two different inorganic bed types was undertaken and a comparative study on biofiltration of two aromatic compounds, styrene and toluene, is also presented.

  1. Guidance of neurite outgrowth on aligned electrospun polypyrrole/poly(styrene-beta-isobutylene-beta-styrene) fiber platforms.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiao; Chen, Jun; Gilmore, Kerry J; Higgins, Michael J; Liu, Yong; Wallace, Gordon G

    2010-09-15

    The purpose of this work was to investigate the potential biomedical application of novel aligned electrospun polypyrrole (PPy)/poly(styrene-beta-isobutylene-beta-styrene) (SIBS) fibers. After successfully aligning the electroactive PPy/SIBS fibers based on our modified electrospinning method, we demonstrated that neurite outgrowth from PC12 cells could be highly orientated parallel to the aligned PPy/SIBS fibers. Physical interactions between the nerve cells and PPy/SIBS fibers through filopodia "sensing" were observed using atomic force microscopy. These observations indicate a role of contact guidance as a mechanism for the observed alignment. This work highlights the capacity for electroactive PPy/SIBS fibers to support and guide nerve cell differentiation through topographic cues, which is a highly desirable characteristic in medical implants for neurological applications. (c) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  2. Trends in Occupational Exposure to Styrene in the European Glass Fibre-Reinforced Plastics Industry

    PubMed Central

    Van Rooij, J. G. M.; Kasper, A.; Triebig, G.; Werner, P.; Kromhout, H.

    2008-01-01

    Aim: This study presents temporal trends of styrene exposure for workers in the European glass fibre-reinforced plastics (GRP) industry during the period 1966–2002. Methods: Data of personal styrene exposure measurements were retrieved from reports, databases and peer-reviewed papers. Only sources with descriptive statistics of personal measurements were accepted. The styrene exposure data cover personal air samples and biological monitoring data, that is, urinary styrene metabolites (mandelic acid and/or phenylglyoxylic acid) and styrene in blood. Means of series of measurements were categorized by year, country, production process, job and sampling strategy. Linear mixed models were used to identify temporal trends and factors affecting exposure levels. Results: Personal exposure measurements were available from 60 reports providing data on 24145 1–8-h time-weighted average shift personal air samples. Available data of biological exposure indicators included measurements of mandelic acid in post-shift urine (6361 urine samples being analysed). Trend analyses of the available styrene exposure data showed that the average styrene concentration in the breathing zone of open-mould workers in the European GRP industry has decreased on average by 5.3% per year during the period 1966–1990 and by only 0.4% annually in the period after 1990. The highest exposures were measured in Southern Europe and the lowest exposures in Northern Europe with Central Europe in between. Biological indicators of styrene (mandelic acid in post-shift urine) showed a somewhat steeper decline (8.9%), most likely because urine samples were collected in companies that showed a stronger decrease of styrene exposure in air than GRP companies where no biological measurements were carried out. PMID:18550625

  3. Combining ZnO/microwave treatment for changing wettability of WEEE styrene plastics (ABS and HIPS) and their selective separation by froth flotation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thanh Truc, Nguyen Thi; Lee, Byeong-Kyu

    2017-10-01

    This study reports a simple froth flotation method to separate plastic wastes of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and high impact polystyrene (HIPS) after initial hydrophilization by coating the plastics with ZnO and microwave treatment. ABS and HIPS are typical styrene-based WEEE plastics having similar density and hydrophobicity, which hinders their separation for recycling. After coating with ZnO, 2-min microwave treatment rearranged the ABS surface and thus changed its molecular mobility and increased its hydrophilicity. The combined ZnO coating/microwave treatment facilitated the selective separation of ABS and HIPS with 100% and 95.2% recovery and 95.4% and 100% purity in froth flotation, respectively. The combination of ZnO coating-microwave treatment and froth flotation can be utilized as a selective ABS/HIPS separation technique for improved recycling of WEEE plastics.

  4. Proton exchange membranes prepared by grafting of styrene/divinylbenzene into crosslinked PTFE membranes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Jingye; Ichizuri, Shogo; Asano, Saneto; Mutou, Fumihiro; Ikeda, Shigetoshi; Iida, Minoru; Miura, Takaharu; Oshima, Akihiro; Tabata, Yoneho; Washio, Masakazu

    2005-07-01

    Thin PTFE membranes were prepared by coating the PTFE dispersion onto the aluminum films. Thus the thin crosslinked PTFE (RX-PTFE) membranes were obtained by means of electron beam irradiation above the melting temperature of PTFE under oxygen-free atmosphere. The RX-PTFE membranes were pre-irradiated and grafted by styrene with or without divinylbenzene (DVB) in liquid phase. The existence of DVB accelerated the initial grafting rate. The styrene grafted RX-PTFE membranes are white colored, on the other hand, the styrene/DVB grafted RX-PTFE membranes are colorless. The proton exchange membranes (PEMs) were obtained by sulfonating the grafted membranes using chlorosulfonic acid. The ion exchange capacity (IEC) values of the PEMs ranging from 1.5 to 2.8 meq/g were obtained. The PEMs made from the styrene/DVB grafted membranes showed higher chemical stability than those of the styrene grafted membranes under oxidative circumstance.

  5. Measurement of Diffusion in Entangled Rod-Coil Triblock Copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Olsen, B. D.; Wang, M.

    2012-02-01

    Although rod-coil block copolymers have attracted increasing attention for functional nanomaterials, their dynamics relevant to self-assembly and processing have not been widely investigated. Because the rod and coil blocks have different reptation behavior and persistence lengths, the mechanism by which block copolymers will diffuse is unclear. In order to understand the effect of the rigid block on reptation, tracer diffusion of a coil-rod-coil block copolymer through an entangled coil polymer matrix was experimentally measured. A monodisperse, high molecular weight coil-rod-coil triblock was synthesized using artificial protein engineering to prepare the helical rod and bioconjugaiton of poly(ethylene glycol) coils to produce the final triblock. Diffusion measurements were performed using Forced Rayleigh scattering (FRS), at varying ratios of the rod length to entanglement length, where genetic engineering is used to control the protein rod length and the polymer matrix concentration controls the entanglement length. As compared to PEO homopolymer tracers, the coil-rod-coil triblocks show markedly slower diffusion, suggesting that the mismatch between rod and coil reptation mechanisms results in hindered diffusion of these molecules in the entangled state.

  6. Development of Styrene-Grafted Polyurethane by Radiation-Based Techniques

    PubMed Central

    Jeong, Jin-Oh; Park, Jong-Seok; Lim, Youn-Mook

    2016-01-01

    Polyurethane (PU) is the fifth most common polymer in the general consumer market, following Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Polystyrene (PS), and the most common polymer for thermosetting resins. In particular, polyurethane has excellent hardness and heat resistance, is a widely used material for electronic products and automotive parts, and can be used to create products of various physical properties, including rigid and flexible foams, films, and fibers. However, the use of polar polymer polyurethane as an impact modifier of non-polar polymers is limited due to poor combustion resistance and impact resistance. In this study, we used gamma irradiation at 25 and 50 kGy to introduce the styrene of hydrophobic monomer on the polyurethane as an impact modifier of the non-polar polymer. To verify grafted styrene, we confirmed the phenyl group of styrene at 690 cm−1 by Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and at 6.4–6.8 ppm by 1H-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H-NMR). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and contact angle analysis were also used to confirm styrene introduction. This study has confirmed the possibility of applying high-functional composite through radiation-based techniques. PMID:28773561

  7. [Mechanism and performance of styrene oxidation by O3/H2O2].

    PubMed

    He, Jue-Cong; Huang, Qian-Ru; Ye, Qi-Hong; Luo, Yu-Wei; Zhang, Zai-Li; Fan, Qing-Juan; Wei, Zai-Shan

    2013-10-01

    It can produce a large number of free radicals in O3/H2O2, system, ozone and free radical coupling oxidation can improve the styrene removal efficiency. Styrene oxidation by O3/H2O2 was investigated. Ozone dosage, residence time, H2o2 volume fraction, spray density and molar ratio of O3/C8H8 on styrene removal were evaluated. The experimental results showed that styrene removal efficiency achieved 85.7%. The optimal residence time, H2O2, volume fraction, spray density and O3/C8H8 molar ratio were 20. 6 s, 10% , 1.72 m3.(m2.h)-1 and 0.46, respectively. The gas-phase degradation intermediate products were benzaldehyde(C6H5CHO) and benzoic acid (C6H5 COOH) , which were identified by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS). The degradation mechanism of styrene is presented.

  8. Synthesis of Novel μ-Star Copolymers with Poly(N-Octyl Benzamide) and Poly(ε-Caprolactone) Miktoarms through Chain-Growth Condensation Polymerization, Styrenics-Assisted Atom Transfer Radical Coupling, and Ring-Opening Polymerization.

    PubMed

    Huang, Chih-Feng; Aimi, Junko; Lai, Kuan-Yu

    2017-02-01

    Star copolymers are known to phase separate on the nanoscale, providing useful self-assembled morphologies. In this study, the authors investigate synthesis and assembly behavior of miktoarm star (μ-star) copolymers. The authors employ a new strategy for the synthesis of unprecedented μ-star copolymers presenting poly(N-octyl benzamide) (PBA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) arms: a combination of chain-growth condensation polymerization, styrenics-assisted atom transfer radical coupling, and ring-opening polymerization. Gel permeation chromatography, mass-analyzed laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy reveal the successful synthesis of a well-defined (PBA 11 ) 2 -(PCL 15 ) 4 μ-star copolymer (M n ,NMR ≈ 12 620; Đ = 1.22). Preliminary examination of the PBA 2 PCL 4 μ-star copolymer reveals assembled nanofibers having a uniform diameter of ≈20 nm. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Double-bond-containing polyallene-based triblock copolymers via phenoxyallene and (meth)acrylate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, Aishun; Lu, Guolin; Guo, Hao; Huang, Xiaoyu

    2017-03-01

    A series of ABA triblock copolymers, consisting of double-bond-containing poly(phenoxyallene) (PPOA), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), or poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA) segments, were synthesized by sequential free radical polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). A new bifunctional initiator bearing azo and halogen-containing ATRP initiating groups was first prepared followed by initiating conventional free radical homopolymerization of phenoxyallene with cumulated double bond to give a PPOA-based macroinitiator with ATRP initiating groups at both ends. Next, PMMA-b-PPOA-b-PMMA and PBA-b-PPOA-b-PBA triblock copolymers were synthesized by ATRP of methyl methacrylate and n-butyl acrylate initiated by the PPOA-based macroinitiator through the site transformation strategy. These double-bond-containing triblock copolymers are stable under UV irradiation and free radical circumstances.

  10. Synthesis and Characterization of Graft Copolymers Poly(isoprene-g-styrene) of High Molecular Weight by a Combination of Anionic Polymerization and Emulsion Polymerization

    DOE PAGES

    Wang, Wenwen; Wang, Weiyu; Li, Hui; ...

    2015-01-14

    In this study, high molecular weight “comb-shaped” graft copolymers, poly(isoprene-g-styrene), with polyisoprene as the backbone and polystyrene as side chains, were synthesized via free radical emulsion polymerization by copolymerization of isoprene with a polystyrene macromonomer synthesized using anionic polymerization. A small amount of toluene was used in order to successfully disperse the macromonomer. Both a redox and thermal initiation system were used in the emulsion polymerization, and the latex particle size and distribution were investigated by dynamic light scattering. The structural characteristics of the macromonomer and comb graft copolymers were investigated through use of size exclusion chromatography, spectroscopy, microscopy, thermalmore » analysis, and rheology. While the macromonomer was successfully copolymerized to obtain the desired multigraft copolymers, small amounts of unreacted macromonomer remained in the products, reflecting its reduced reactivity due to steric effects. Nevertheless, the multigraft copolymers obtained were very high in molecular weight (5–12 × 10 5 g/mol) and up to 10 branches per chain, on average, could be incorporated. A material incorporating 29 wt% polystyrene exhibits a disordered microphase separated morphology and elastomeric properties. As a result, these materials show promise as new, highly tunable, and potentially low cost thermoplastic elastomers.« less

  11. Gas Uptake of 3-D Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Using a Vacuum Apparatus Designed for Absorption and Desorption Studies

    PubMed Central

    Sefa, Makfir; Ahmed, Zeeshan; Fedchak, James A.; Scherschligt, Julia; Klimov, Nikolai

    2017-01-01

    We describe a vacuum apparatus for determining the outgassing rate into vacuum, the diffusion coefficient, and the amount of gas absorbed for various materials. The diffusion coefficient is determined from a model applied to time-dependent desorption data taken using a throughput method. We used this method to determine the diffusion coefficient, D, for H2O in 3-D printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). We found DH2O = 8.3 × 10−8 cm2/s ± 1.3 × 10−8 cm2/s (k = 1; 67% confidence interval) at 23.2 °C. This result was compared to the diffusion coefficient determined another by a gravimetric method, in which the sample weight was monitored as it absorbed gas from the atmosphere. The two methods agreed to within 3%, which is well within the uncertainty of the measurement. We also found that at least 80% of the atmospheric gas (air) absorbed by the ABS is water. The total amount of all atmospheric gas absorbed by ABS was about 0.35% by weight when exposed to ambient air in the laboratory, which was at a pressure of 101 kPa with a relative humidity of 57% at 22.2 °C. PMID:28736481

  12. Three-dimensional printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene framework coated with Cu-BTC metal-organic frameworks for the removal of methylene blue.

    PubMed

    Wang, Zongyuan; Wang, Jiajun; Li, Minyue; Sun, Kaihang; Liu, Chang-jun

    2014-08-04

    Three-dimensional (3D) printing was applied for the fabrication of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) framework. Functionalization of the ABS framework was then performed by coating of porous Cu-BTC (BTC = benzene tricarboxylic acid) metal-organic frameworks on it using a step-by-step in-situ growth. The size of the Cu-BTC particles on ABS was ranged from 200 nm to 900 nm. The Cu-BTC/ABS framework can take up most of the space of the tubular reactor that makes the adsorption effective with no need of stirring. Methylene blue (MB) can be readily removed from aqueous solution by this Cu-BTC/ABS framework. The MB removal efficiency for solutions with concentrations of 10 and 5 mg/L was 93.3% and 98.3%, respectively, within 10 min. After MB adsorption, the Cu-BTC/ABS composite can easily be recovered without the need for centrifugation or filtration and the composite is reusable. In addition the ABS framework can be recovered for subsequent reuse. A significant advantage of 3D-printed frameworks is that different frameworks can be easily fabricated to meet the needs of different applications. This is a promising strategy to synthesize new frameworks using MOFs and polymers to develop materials for applications beyond adsorption.

  13. Three-dimensional Printed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Framework Coated with Cu-BTC Metal-organic Frameworks for the Removal of Methylene Blue

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Zongyuan; Wang, Jiajun; Li, Minyue; Sun, Kaihang; Liu, Chang-jun

    2014-01-01

    Three-dimensional (3D) printing was applied for the fabrication of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) framework. Functionalization of the ABS framework was then performed by coating of porous Cu-BTC (BTC = benzene tricarboxylic acid) metal-organic frameworks on it using a step-by-step in-situ growth. The size of the Cu-BTC particles on ABS was ranged from 200 nm to 900 nm. The Cu-BTC/ABS framework can take up most of the space of the tubular reactor that makes the adsorption effective with no need of stirring. Methylene blue (MB) can be readily removed from aqueous solution by this Cu-BTC/ABS framework. The MB removal efficiency for solutions with concentrations of 10 and 5 mg/L was 93.3% and 98.3%, respectively, within 10 min. After MB adsorption, the Cu-BTC/ABS composite can easily be recovered without the need for centrifugation or filtration and the composite is reusable. In addition the ABS framework can be recovered for subsequent reuse. A significant advantage of 3D-printed frameworks is that different frameworks can be easily fabricated to meet the needs of different applications. This is a promising strategy to synthesize new frameworks using MOFs and polymers to develop materials for applications beyond adsorption. PMID:25089616

  14. 21 CFR 177.1020 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. 177... SERVICES (CONTINUED) INDIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES: POLYMERS Substances for Use as Basic Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1020 Acrylonitrile/butadiene/sty-rene co-polymer. Acrylonitrile...

  15. Electroactive nanostructured polymer actuators fabricated using sulfonated styrenic pentablock copolymer/montmorillonite/ionic liquid nanocomposite membranes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Jang-Woo; Hong, Soon Man; Koo, Chong Min

    2014-08-01

    High-bendable, air-operable ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) actuators composed of electroactive nanostructured middle-block sulfonated styrenic pentablock copolymer (SSPB)/sulfonated montmorillonite (s-MMT) nanocomposite electrolyte membranes with bulky imidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) incorporated were fabricated and their bending actuation performances were evaluated. The SSPB-based IPMC actuators showed larger air-operable bending displacements, higher displacement rates, and higher energy efficiency of actuations without conventional IPMC bottlenecks, including back relaxation and actuation instability during actuation in air, than the Nafion counterpart. Incorporation of s-MMT into the SSPB matrix further enhanced the actuation performance of the IPMC actuators in terms of displacement, displacement rate, and energy efficiency. The remarkably high performance of the SSPB/s-MMT/IL IPMCs was considered to be due to the microphase-separated large ionic domains of the SSPB (the average diameter of the ionic domain: ca. 20 nm) and the role of s-MMT as an ionic bridge between the ionic domains, and the ion pumping effect of the bulky imidazolium cations of the ILs as well. The microphase-separated nanostructure of the composite membranes caused a high dimensional stability upon swelling in the presence of ILs, which effectively preserved the original electrode resistance against swelling, leading to a high actuation performance of IPMC.

  16. Controlled delivery of paclitaxel from stent coatings using poly(hydroxystyrene-b-isobutylene-b-hydroxystyrene) and its acetylated derivative.

    PubMed

    Sipos, Laszlo; Som, Abhijit; Faust, Rudolf; Richard, Robert; Schwarz, Marlene; Ranade, Shrirang; Boden, Mark; Chan, Ken

    2005-01-01

    A poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene) (SIBS) triblock polymer is employed as the polymer drug carrier for the TAXUS Express2 Paclitaxel-Eluting Coronary Stent system (Boston Scientific Corp.). It has been shown that the release of paclitaxel (PTx) from SIBS can be modulated by modification of either drug-loading ratio or altering the triblock morphology by blending. In the present work, results toward achieving release modulation of PTx by chemical modification of the styrenic portion (using hydroxystyrene or its acetylated version) of the SIBS polymer system are reported. The synthesis of the precursor poly[(p-tert-butyldimethylsilyloxystyrene)]-b-isobutylene-b-[(p-tert-butyldimethylsilyloxystyrene] triblock copolymers was accomplished by living sequential block copolymerization of isobutylene (IB) and p-(tert-butyldimethylsiloxy)styrene (TBDMS) utilizing the capping-tuning technique in a one-pot procedure in methylcyclohexane/CH3Cl at -80 degrees C. This procedure involved the living cationic polymerization of IB with the 5-tert-butyl-1,3-bis(1-chloro-1-methylethyl)benzene/TiCl4 initiating system and capping of living difunctional polyisobutylene (PIB) chain ends with 1,1-ditolylethylene (DTE) followed by addition of titanium(IV) isopropoxide (Ti(OIp)4) to lower the Lewis acidity before the introduction of TBDMS. Deprotection of the product with tetrabutylammonium fluoride yielded poly(hydroxystyrene-b-isobutylene-b-hydroxystyrene), which was quantitatively acetylated to obtain the acetylated derivative. The hydroxystyrene and acetoxystyrene triblock copolymers have acceptable mechanical properties for use as drug delivery coatings for coronary stent applications. It was concluded that the hydrophilic nature of the endblocks and polarity effects on the drug/polymer miscibility lead to enhanced release of PTx from these polymers. The drug-polymer miscibility was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and atomic force microscopy evaluations.

  17. Predictors of occupational exposure to styrene and styrene‐7,8‐oxide in the reinforced plastics industry

    PubMed Central

    Serdar, B; Tornero‐Velez, R; Echeverria, D; Nylander‐French, L A; Kupper, L L; Rappaport, S M

    2006-01-01

    Objective To identify demographic and work related factors that predict blood levels of styrene and styrene‐7,8‐oxide (SO) in the fibreglass reinforced plastics (FRP) industry. Methods Personal breathing‐zone air samples and whole blood samples were collected repeatedly from 328 reinforced plastics workers in the Unuted States between 1996 and 1999. Styrene and its major metabolite SO were measured in these samples. Multivariable linear regression analyses were applied to the subject‐specific levels to explain the variation in exposure and biomarker levels. Results Exposure levels of styrene were approximately 500‐fold higher than those of SO. Exposure levels of styrene and SO varied greatly among the types of products manufactured, with an 11‐fold range of median air levels among categories for styrene and a 23‐fold range for SO. Even after stratification by job title, median exposures of styrene and SO among laminators varied 14‐ and 31‐fold across product categories. Furthermore, the relative proportions of exposures to styrene and SO varied among product categories. Multivariable regression analyses explained 70% and 63% of the variation in air levels of styrene and SO, respectively, and 72% and 34% of the variation in blood levels of styrene and SO, respectively. Overall, air levels of styrene and SO appear to have decreased substantially in this industry over the last 10–20 years in the US and were greatest among workers with the least seniority. Conclusions As levels of styrene and SO in air and blood varied among product categories in the FRP industry, use of job title as a surrogate for exposure can introduce unpredictable measurement errors and can confound the relation between exposure and health outcomes in epidemiology studies. Also, inverse relations between the intensity of exposure to styrene and SO and years on the job suggest that younger workers with little seniority are typically exposed to higher levels of styrene and SO

  18. Identification and characterization of epoxide hydrolase activity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria for biocatalytic resolution of racemic styrene oxide and styrene oxide derivatives.

    PubMed

    Woo, Jung-Hee; Kwon, Tae-Hyung; Kim, Jun-Tae; Kim, Choong-Gon; Lee, Eun Yeol

    2013-04-01

    A novel epoxide hydrolase (EHase) from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-degrading bacteria was identified and characterized. EHase activity was identified in four strains of PAH-degrading bacteria isolated from commercial gasoline and oil-contaminated sediment based on their growth on styrene oxide and its derivatives, such as 2,3- and 4-chlorostyrene oxides, as a sole carbon source. Gordonia sp. H37 exhibited high enantioselective hydrolysis activity for 4-chlorostyrene oxide with an enantiomeric ratio of 27. Gordonia sp. H37 preferentially hydrolyzed the (R)-enantiomer of styrene oxide derivatives resulting in the preparation of a (S)-enantiomer with enantiomeric excess greater than 99.9 %. The enantioselective EHase activity was identified and characterized in various PAH-degrading bacteria, and whole cell Gordonia sp. H37 was employed as a biocatalyst for preparing enantiopure (S)-styrene oxide derivatives.

  19. Biomonitoring for Exposure Assessment to Styrene in the Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic Industry: Determinants and Interferents.

    PubMed

    Bonanni, Rossana Claudia; Gatto, Maria Pia; Paci, Enrico; Gordiani, Andrea; Gherardi, Monica; Tranfo, Giovanna

    2015-10-01

    Fifty-eight workers exposed to styrene were monitored in four fibreglass reinforced plastic industries of Central Italy. The aim of the study was to explore the factors that can influence the levels of styrene exposure biomarkers of the workers and the aspects that might interfere with the exposure assessment measures, such as the co-exposure to acetone. Personal monitoring of professional exposure to airborne styrene and acetone was carried out by Radiello samplers and GC/MS analysis. Biological monitoring was performed by the determination of urinary metabolites, mandelic (MA), and phenylglyoxylic (PGA) acids with HPLC/MS/MS and unmetabolized styrene in saliva and venous blood by HS/GC/MS. The median values of the four sites ranged between 24.1 to 94.0mg m(-3) and 7.3 to 331.1mg g(-1) creatinine for airborne styrene and MA + PGA, respectively. A good linear correlation was found between styrene in air and its urinary metabolites (r = 0.854). The median value for airborne styrene was found to exceed the (Threshold Limit Value - Time Weighted Average) of 85 mg m(-3) in one site for all the workers and in two if only moulders are considered. The multiple linear regression model showed that the determinants of urinary MA + PGA excretion were the type of process, workers' tasks, level of acetone co-exposure, and the use of respiratory protection devices. Data show that the simultaneous exposure to acetone modify the styrene metabolism with a reduction in the levels of (MA + PGA) excreted. A significant linear log-correlation was found between salivary levels of styrene and blood concentration (r = 0.746) sampled at the same t x time. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Occupational Hygiene Society.

  20. Use of amphiphilic triblock copolymers for enhancing removal efficiency of organic pollutant from contaminated media

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Jun Hyup; Lee, Byungsun; Son, Intae; Kim, Jae Hong; Kim, Chunho; Yoo, Ji Yong; Wu, Jong-Pyo; Kim, Younguk

    2015-11-01

    We have studied amphiphilic triblock copolymers poly(ethylene glycol)- b-poly(propylene glycol)- b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG- b-PPG- b-PEG) and poly(propylene glycol)- b-poly(ethylene glycol)- b-poly(propylene glycol) (PPG- b-PEG- b-PPG) as possible substitutes for sodium dodecyl sulfate as anionic surfactants for the removal of hydrophobic contaminants. The triblock copolymers were compared with sodium dodecyl sulfate in terms of their abilities to remove toluene as hydrophobic contaminant in fuel, and the effects of polymer structure, PEG content, and concentration were studied. The PEG- b-PPG- b-PEG copolymer containing two hydrophilic PEG blocks was more effective for the removal of hydrophobic contaminant at extremely high concentration. We also measured the removal capabilities of the triblock copolymers having various PEG contents and confirmed that removal capability was greatest at 10% PEG content regardless of polymer structure. As with sodium dodecyl sulfate, the removal efficiency of a copolymer has a positive correlation with its concentration. Finally, we proposed the amphiphilic triblock copolymer of PPG- b-PEG- b-PPG bearing 10% PEG content that proved to be the most effective substitute for sodium dodecyl sulfate.

  1. Molecular mechanisms of action of styrene toxicity in blood plasma and liver.

    PubMed

    Niaz, Kamal; Mabqool, Faheem; Khan, Fazlullah; Ismail Hassan, Fatima; Baeeri, Maryam; Navaei-Nigjeh, Mona; Hassani, Shokoufeh; Gholami, Mahdi; Abdollahi, Mohammad

    2017-10-01

    Styrene is an aromatic colorless hydrocarbon available in liquid form and highly volatile. In its pure form, it gives a sweet smell. The primary source of exposure in the environment is from plastic materials, rubber industries, packaging materials, insulations, and fiber glass and carpet industry. Natural sources of styrene include: few metabolites in plants which are transferred through food chain. The current study was designed to evaluate styrene toxicity, including: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and protein carbonyl, oxidative stress, glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), glycogen phosphorylase (GP), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) activities, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) ratio, and changes in gene expressions such as glutamate dehydrogenase 1 (GLUD1), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2), and glucokinase (GCK) in the rat liver tissue. For this purpose, styrene was dissolved in corn oil and was administered via gavage, at doses 250, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, mg/kg/day per mL and control (corn oil) to each rat with one day off in a week, for 42 days. Plasma SOD and protein carbonyl of plasma were significantly up-regulated in 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg/kg/day styrene administrated groups (P < .001). In addition, styrene caused an increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the dose-dependent manners in liver tissue (P < .001). Furthermore, the ferrous reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total thiol molecules (TTM) in styrene-treated groups were significantly decreased in liver tissue (P < .001) with increasing doses. In treated rats, styrene significantly increased G6Pase activity (P < .001) and down-regulated GP activity (P < .001) as compared to the control group. The PEPCK activity was significantly raised in a dose-dependent manner (P < .001). The ATP/ADP ratio of live cells was significantly raised by increasing the dose (P < .001). There was significantly an up

  2. Preparation of candidate reference materials for the determination of phosphorus containing flame retardants in styrene-based polymers.

    PubMed

    Roth, Thomas; Urpi Bertran, Raquel; Latza, Andreas; Andörfer-Lang, Katrin; Hügelschäffer, Claudia; Pöhlein, Manfred; Puchta, Ralph; Placht, Christian; Maid, Harald; Bauer, Walter; van Eldik, Rudi

    2015-04-01

    Candidate reference materials (RM) for the analysis of phosphorus-based flame retardants in styrene-based polymers were prepared using a self-made mini-extruder. Due to legal requirements of the current restriction for the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, focus now is placed on phosphorus-based flame retardants instead of the brominated kind. Newly developed analytical methods for the first-mentioned substances also require RMs similar to industrial samples for validation and verification purposes. Hence, the prepared candidate RMs contained resorcinol-bis-(diphenyl phosphate), bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate), triphenyl phosphate and triphenyl phosphine oxide as phosphorus-based flame retardants. Blends of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile-co-butadiene-co-styrene as well as blends of high-impact polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide were chosen as carrier polymers. Homogeneity and thermal stability of the candidate RMs were investigated. Results showed that the candidate RMs were comparable to the available industrial materials. Measurements by ICP/OES, FTIR and NMR confirmed the expected concentrations of the flame retardants and proved that analyte loss and degradation, respectively, was below the uncertainty of measurement during the extrusion process. Thus, the candidate RMs were found to be suitable for laboratory use.

  3. Structure and Ligand Binding Properties of the Epoxidase Component of Styrene Monooxygenase

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ukaegbu, Uchechi E.; Kantz, Auric; Beaton, Michelle

    2010-07-23

    Styrene monooxygenase (SMO) is a two-component flavoprotein monooxygenase that transforms styrene to styrene oxide in the first step of the styrene catabolic and detoxification pathway of Pseudomonas putida S12. The crystal structure of the N-terminally histidine-tagged epoxidase component of this system, NSMOA, determined to 2.3 {angstrom} resolution, indicates the enzyme exists as a homodimer in which each monomer forms two distinct domains. The overall architecture is most similar to that of p-hydroxybenzoate hydroxylase (PHBH), although there are some significant differences in secondary structure. Structural comparisons suggest that a large cavity open to the surface forms the FAD binding site. Atmore » the base of this pocket is another cavity that likely represents the styrene binding site. Flavin binding and redox equilibria are tightly coupled such that reduced FAD binds apo NSMOA {approx}8000 times more tightly than the oxidized coenzyme. Equilibrium fluorescence and isothermal titration calorimetry data using benzene as a substrate analogue indicate that the oxidized flavin and substrate analogue binding equilibria of NSMOA are linked such that the binding affinity of each is increased by 60-fold when the enzyme is saturated with the other. A much weaker {approx}2-fold positive cooperative interaction is observed for the linked binding equilibria of benzene and reduced FAD. The low affinity of the substrate analogue for the reduced FAD complex of NSMOA is consistent with a preferred reaction order in which flavin reduction and reaction with oxygen precede the binding of styrene, identifying the apoenzyme structure as the key catalytic resting state of NSMOA poised to bind reduced FAD and initiate the oxygen reaction.« less

  4. Super-enhanced particle nucleation in styrene emulsion polymerization in the presence of sodium styrene sulfonate.

    PubMed

    Farias-Cepeda, Lorena; Herrera-Ordonez, Jorge; Hernandez-Martinez, Angel R; Estevez, Miriam; Rosales-Marines, Lucero

    2017-08-15

    The styrene (St) emulsion polymerization using Aerosol MA80 as surfactant and in the presence of sodium styrene sulfonate (NaSS) was studied. The effect of NaSS content was assessed using MA80 concentrations below and at the critical micellar concentration. It was found that at the higher NaSS and MA80 contents, the number of particles (N) reaches a maximum of the order of 10 17 particles/cm 3 water, a huge value that has never been reported. In this work an explanation for this super-enhanced particle nucleation phenomenon is proposed. Such hypothesis is based on the role of St-NaSS oligomers formed in the aqueous phase and their synergy with MA80 molecules to provide colloidal stability to the system. The proposal seems to be consistent with the experimental data obtained for the evolution of monomer conversion, N, particles size distribution and the wideness of this latter as well as with a theoretical estimation of the N. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Acrylic Triblock Copolymers Incorporating Isosorbide for Pressure Sensitive Adhesives

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gallagher, James J.; Hillmyer, Marc A.; Reineke, Theresa M.

    A new monomer acetylated acrylic isosorbide (AAI) was prepared in two steps using common reagents without the need for column chromatography. Free radical polymerization of AAI afforded poly(acetylated acrylic isosorbide) (PAAI), which exhibited a glass transition temperature (Tg) = 95 °C and good thermal stability (Td, 5% weight loss; N2 = 331 °C, air = 291 °C). A series of ABA triblock copolymers with either poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PnBA) or poly(2-ethylhexyl acrylate) (PEHA) as the low Tg midblocks and PAAI as the high Tg end blocks were prepared using Reversible Addition–Fragmentation chain Transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The triblock copolymers ranging from 8–24more » wt % PAAI were evaluated as pressure sensitive adhesives by 180° peel, loop tack, and static shear testing. While the PAAI-PEHA-PAAI series exhibited poor adhesive qualities, the PAAI-PnBA-PAAI series of triblock copolymers demonstrated peel forces up to 2.9 N cm–1, tack forces up to 3.2 N cm–1, and no shear failure up to 10000 min. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that PAAI-PEHA-PAAI lacked the dissipative qualities needed to form an adhesive bond with the substrate, while the PAAI-PnBA-PAAI series exhibited a dynamic mechanical response consistent with related high performing PSAs.« less

  6. Rational and combinatorial approaches to engineering styrene production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

    PubMed

    McKenna, Rebekah; Thompson, Brian; Pugh, Shawn; Nielsen, David R

    2014-08-21

    Styrene is an important building-block petrochemical and monomer used to produce numerous plastics. Whereas styrene bioproduction by Escherichia coli was previously reported, the long-term potential of this approach will ultimately rely on the use of hosts with improved industrial phenotypes, such as the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Classical metabolic evolution was first applied to isolate a mutant capable of phenylalanine over-production to 357 mg/L. Transcription analysis revealed up-regulation of several phenylalanine biosynthesis pathway genes including ARO3, encoding the bottleneck enzyme DAHP synthase. To catalyze the first pathway step, phenylalanine ammonia lyase encoded by PAL2 from A. thaliana was constitutively expressed from a high copy plasmid. The final pathway step, phenylacrylate decarboxylase, was catalyzed by the native FDC1. Expression of FDC1 was naturally induced by trans-cinnamate, the pathway intermediate and its substrate, at levels sufficient for ensuring flux through the pathway. Deletion of ARO10 to eliminate the competing Ehrlich pathway and expression of a feedback-resistant DAHP synthase encoded by ARO4K229L preserved and promoted the endogenous availability precursor phenylalanine, leading to improved pathway flux and styrene production. These systematic improvements allowed styrene titers to ultimately reach 29 mg/L at a glucose yield of 1.44 mg/g, a 60% improvement over the initial strain. The potential of S. cerevisiae as a host for renewable styrene production has been demonstrated. Significant strain improvements, however, will ultimately be needed to achieve economical production levels.

  7. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lu, Wei; Wang, Yangyang; Wang, Weiyu

    All acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) offer potential alternatives to the widely-used styrenic TPEs. However, the high entanglement molecular weight ( M e) of polyacrylates, as compared to polydienes, leads to “disappointing” mechanical performance as compared to styrenic TPEs. In this study, triblock copolymers composed of alkyl acrylates with different pendant groups and different glass transition temperatures ( T gs), i.e. 1-adamatyl acrylate (AdA) and tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate (THFA), were synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Thermal characterization of the resulting polymers was performed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the T gs of both segments were observed for themore » block copolymers. This indication of microphase separation behavior was further demonstrated using atomic-force microscopy (AFM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the softening temperature of the PAdA domains is 123 °C, which is higher than that of both styrenic TPEs and commercial acrylic based TPEs with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) hard block. Here, the resulting triblock copolymers also exhibited stress–strain behavior superior to that of conventional all acrylic-based TPEs composed of PMMA and poly( n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) made by controlled radical processes, while the tensile strength was lower than for products made by living anionic polymerization.« less

  8. All acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomers with high upper service temperature and superior mechanical properties

    DOE PAGES

    Lu, Wei; Wang, Yangyang; Wang, Weiyu; ...

    2017-08-25

    All acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) offer potential alternatives to the widely-used styrenic TPEs. However, the high entanglement molecular weight ( M e) of polyacrylates, as compared to polydienes, leads to “disappointing” mechanical performance as compared to styrenic TPEs. In this study, triblock copolymers composed of alkyl acrylates with different pendant groups and different glass transition temperatures ( T gs), i.e. 1-adamatyl acrylate (AdA) and tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate (THFA), were synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Thermal characterization of the resulting polymers was performed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the T gs of both segments were observed for themore » block copolymers. This indication of microphase separation behavior was further demonstrated using atomic-force microscopy (AFM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the softening temperature of the PAdA domains is 123 °C, which is higher than that of both styrenic TPEs and commercial acrylic based TPEs with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) hard block. Here, the resulting triblock copolymers also exhibited stress–strain behavior superior to that of conventional all acrylic-based TPEs composed of PMMA and poly( n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) made by controlled radical processes, while the tensile strength was lower than for products made by living anionic polymerization.« less

  9. AN EMPIRICAL MODEL TO PREDICT STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM FIBER-REINFORCED PLASTICS FABRICATION PROCESSES

    EPA Science Inventory

    Styrene is a designated hazardous air pollutant, per the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments. It is also a tropospheric ozone precursor. Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) fabrication is the primary source of anthropogenic styrene emissions in the United States. This paper describes an em...

  10. Effect of styrene exposure on plasma parameters, molecular mechanisms and gene expression in rat model islet cells.

    PubMed

    Niaz, Kamal; Hassan, Fatima Ismail; Mabqool, Faheem; Khan, Fazlullah; Momtaz, Saeideh; Baeeri, Maryam; Navaei-Nigjeh, Mona; Rahimifard, Mahban; Abdollahi, Mohammad

    2017-09-01

    Styrene is an aromatic hydrocarbon compound present in the environment and have primary exposure through plastic industry. The current study was designed to evaluate styrene-induced toxicity parameters in rat plasma fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, oral glucose tolerance, insulin secretion, oxidative stress, and inflammatory cytokines in cellular and molecular levels. Styrene was dissolved in corn oil and administered at different doses (250, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000mg/kg/day and control) to each rat, for 42days. In treated groups, styrene significantly increased fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin (p<0.001) and glucose tolerance. Glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and hyperglycemia were found to be the main consequences correlating gene expression of islet cells. Styrene caused a significant enhancement of oxidative stress markers (p<0.001) and inflammatory cytokines in a dose and concentration-dependent manner in plasma (p<0.001). Moreover, the activities of caspase-3 and -9 of the islet cells were significantly up-regulated by this compound at 1500 and 2000mg/kg/day styrene administrated groups (p<0.001). The relative fold change of GLUD1 was downregulated (p<0.05) and upregulated at 1500 and 2000mg/kg, respectively (p<0.01). The relative fold changes of GLUT2 were down regulated at 250 and 1000mg/kg and up regulated in 500, 1500 and 2000mg/kg doses of styrene (p<0.01). The expression level of GCK indicated a significant upregulation at 250mg/kg and downregulation of relative fold changes in the remaining doses of styrene, except for no change at 2000mg/kg of styrene for GCK. Targeting genes (GLUD1, GLUT2 and GCK) of the pancreatic islet cells in styrene exposed groups, disrupted gluconeogenesis, glycogenolysis pathways and insulin secretory functions. The present study illustrated that fasting blood glucose, insulin pathway, oxidative balance, inflammatory cytokines, cell viability and responsible genes of glucose metabolism are susceptible to styrene

  11. Occupational styrene exposure and acquired dyschromatopsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Choi, Ariel R; Braun, Joseph M; Papandonatos, George D; Greenberg, Paul B

    2017-11-01

    Styrene is a chemical used in the manufacture of plastic-based products worldwide. We systematically reviewed eligible studies of occupational styrene-induced dyschromatopsia, qualitatively synthesizing their findings and estimating the exposure effect through meta-analysis. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were queried for eligible studies. Using a random effects model, we compared measures of dyschromatopsia between exposed and non-exposed workers to calculate the standardized mean difference (Hedges'g). We also assessed between-study heterogeneity and publication bias. Styrene-exposed subjects demonstrated poorer color vision than did the non-exposed (Hedges' g = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.37, 0.76; P < 0.0001). A non-significant Cochran's Q test result (Q = 23.2; P = 0.171) and an I 2 of 32.2% (0.0%, 69.9%) indicated low-to-moderate between-study heterogeneity. Funnel plot and trim-and-fill analyses suggested publication bias. This review confirms the hypothesis of occupational styrene-induced dyschromatopsia, suggesting a modest effect size with mild heterogeneity between studies. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  12. A health risk benchmark for the neurologic effects of styrene: comparison with NOAEL/LOAEL approach.

    PubMed

    Rabovsky, J; Fowles, J; Hill, M D; Lewis, D C

    2001-02-01

    Benchmark dose (BMD) analysis was used to estimate an inhalation benchmark concentration for styrene neurotoxicity. Quantal data on neuropsychologic test results from styrene-exposed workers [Mutti et al. (1984). American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 5, 275-286] were used to quantify neurotoxicity, defined as the percent of tested workers who responded abnormally to > or = 1, > or = 2, or > or = 3 out of a battery of eight tests. Exposure was based on previously published results on mean urinary mandelic- and phenylglyoxylic acid levels in the workers, converted to air styrene levels (15, 44, 74, or 115 ppm). Nonstyrene-exposed workers from the same region served as a control group. Maximum-likelihood estimates (MLEs) and BMDs at 5 and 10% response levels of the exposed population were obtained from log-normal analysis of the quantal data. The highest MLE was 9 ppm (BMD = 4 ppm) styrene and represents abnormal responses to > or = 3 tests by 10% of the exposed population. The most health-protective MLE was 2 ppm styrene (BMD = 0.3 ppm) and represents abnormal responses to > or = 1 test by 5% of the exposed population. A no observed adverse effect level/lowest observed adverse effect level (NOAEL/LOAEL) analysis of the same quantal data showed workers in all styrene exposure groups responded abnormally to > or = 1, > or = 2, or > or = 3 tests, compared to controls, and the LOAEL was 15 ppm. A comparison of the BMD and NOAEL/LOAEL analyses suggests that at air styrene levels below the LOAEL, a segment of the worker population may be adversely affected. The benchmark approach will be useful for styrene noncancer risk assessment purposes by providing a more accurate estimate of potential risk that should, in turn, help to reduce the uncertainty that is a common problem in setting exposure levels.

  13. 21 CFR 181.32 - Acrylonitrile copolymers and resins.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... paragraph (b) of this section, may be safely used as follows: (1) Films. (i) Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene... acrylonitrile monomer extraction for finished food-contact articles, determined by using the method of analysis...

  14. Susceptibility of linear and nonlinear otoacoustic emission components to low-dose styrene exposure.

    PubMed

    Tognola, G; Chiaramello, E; Sisto, R; Moleti, A

    2015-03-01

    To investigate potential susceptibility of active cochlear mechanisms to low-level styrene exposure by comparing TEOAEs in workers and controls. Two advanced analysis techniques were applied to detect sub-clinical changes in linear and nonlinear cochlear mechanisms of OAE generation: the wavelet transform to decompose TEOAEs into time-frequency components and extract signal-to-noise ratio and latency of each component, and the bispectrum to detect and extract nonlinear TEOAE contributions as quadratic frequency couplings (QFCs). Two cohorts of workers were examined: subjects exposed exclusively to styrene (N = 9), and subjects exposed to styrene and noise (N = 6). The control group was perfectly matched by age and sex to the exposed group. Exposed subjects showed significantly lowered SNR in TEOAE components at mid-to-high frequencies (above 1.6 kHz) and a shift of QFC distribution towards lower frequencies than controls. No systematic differences were observed in latency. Low-level styrene exposure may have induced a modification of cochlear functionality as concerns linear and nonlinear OAE generation mechanisms. The lack of change in latency seems to suggest that the OAE components, where generation region and latency are tightly coupled, may not have been affected by styrene and noise exposure levels considered here.

  15. Kinetics of styrene in workers from a plastics industry after controlled exposure: a comparison with subjects not previously exposed.

    PubMed Central

    Löf, A; Lundgren, E; Nordqvist, M B

    1986-01-01

    Eight male workers from a glass reinforced plastics industry were experimentally exposed for 2 hours to 2.84 mmol/m3 (296 mg/m3) styrene during light physical exercise (50 W). About 63% of the amount supplied (4.6 mmol styrene) was taken up in the body. The arterial blood concentration of styrene reached a relatively stable level of 15 mumol/l at the end of exposure which was about 70% of the blood concentration in a group of volunteers with no previous exposure to solvents. The apparent blood clearance was significantly higher in the occupationally exposed subjects 2.01/h X kg compared with 1.51/h X kg. Contrary to the relatively stable level of styrene at the end of exposure the concentration of non-conjugated styrene glycol increased throughout the exposure and reached about 3 mumol/l in both groups. Like styrene, the non-conjugated styrene glycol seemed to be eliminated faster from the occupationally exposed workers. The blood concentration of styrene-7,8-oxide was low and seldom exceeded the detection limit of 0.02 mumol/l. The results show that long term exposure in a glass reinforced plastics industry may facilitate the metabolism of styrene. PMID:3730303

  16. 40 CFR 721.7020 - Distillates (petroleum), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). 721.7020 Section 721.7020 Protection of...), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). (a) Chemical substance and...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (PMN P-89-676) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

  17. 40 CFR 721.7020 - Distillates (petroleum), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). 721.7020 Section 721.7020 Protection of...), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). (a) Chemical substance and...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (PMN P-89-676) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

  18. 40 CFR 721.7020 - Distillates (petroleum), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). 721.7020 Section 721.7020 Protection of...), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). (a) Chemical substance and...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (PMN P-89-676) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

  19. 40 CFR 721.7020 - Distillates (petroleum), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). 721.7020 Section 721.7020 Protection of...), C(3-6), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (generic name). (a) Chemical substance and...), polymers with styrene and mixed terpenes (PMN P-89-676) is subject to reporting under this section for the...

  20. Microbial production of the aromatic building-blocks (S)-styrene oxide and (R)-1,2-phenylethanediol from renewable resources.

    PubMed

    McKenna, Rebekah; Pugh, Shawn; Thompson, Brian; Nielsen, David R

    2013-12-01

    (S)-Styrene oxide and (R)-1,2-phenylethanediol are chiral aromatic molecular building blocks used commonly as precursors to pharmaceuticals and other specialty chemicals. Two pathways have been engineered in Escherichia coli for their individual biosynthesis directly from glucose. The novel pathways each constitute extensions of the previously engineered styrene pathway, developed by co-expressing either styrene monooxygenase (SMO) or styrene dioxygenase (SDO) to convert styrene to (S)-styrene oxide and (R)-1,2-phenylethanediol, respectively. StyAB from Pseudomonas putida S12 was determined to be the most effective SMO. SDO activity was achieved using NahAaAbAcAd of Pseudomonas sp. NCIB 9816-4, a naphthalene dioxygenase with known broad substrate specificity. Production of phenylalanine, the precursor to both pathways, was systematically enhanced through a number of mutations, most notably via deletion of tyrA and over-expression of tktA. As a result, (R)-1,2-phenylethanediol reached titers as high as 1.23 g/L, and at 1.32 g/L (S)-styrene oxide titers already approach their toxicity limit. As with other aromatics, product toxicity was strongly correlated with a model of membrane accumulation and disruption. This study additionally demonstrates that greater flux through the styrene pathway can be achieved if its toxicity is addressed, as achieved in this case by reacting styrene to less toxic products. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. Highly efficient and selective pressure-assisted photon-induced polymerization of styrene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guan, Jiwen; Song, Yang

    2016-06-01

    The polymerization process of condensed styrene to produce polystyrene as an industrially important polymeric material was investigated using a novel approach by combining external compression with ultraviolet radiation. The reaction evolution was monitored as a function of time and the reaction products were characterized by in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. By optimizing the loading pressures, we observed highly efficient and selective production of polystyrene of different tacticities. Specifically, at relatively low loading pressures, infrared spectra suggest that styrene monomers transform to amorphous atactic polystyrene (APS) with minor crystalline isotactic polystyrene. In contrast, APS was found to be the sole product when polymerization occurs at relatively higher loading pressures. The time-dependent reaction profiles allow the examination of the polymerization kinetics by analyzing the rate constant and activation volume as a function of pressure. As a result, an optimized pressure condition, which allows a barrierless reaction to proceed, was identified and attributed to the very desirable reaction yield and kinetics. Finally, the photoinitiated reaction mechanism and the growth geometry of the polymer chains were investigated from the energy diagram of styrene and by the topology analysis of the crystal styrene. This study shows strong promise to produce functional polymeric materials in a highly efficient and controlled manner.

  2. Evaluation of pollution prevention options to reduce styrene emissions from fiber-reinforced plastic open molding processes.

    PubMed

    Nunez, C M; Ramsey, G H; Kong, E J; Bahner, M A; Wright, R S; Clayton, C A; Baskir, J N

    1999-03-01

    Pollution prevention (P2) options to reduce styrene emissions, such as new materials and application equipment, are commercially available to the operators of open molding processes. However, information is lacking on the emissions reduction that these options can achieve. To meet this need, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Air Pollution Prevention and Control Division, working in collaboration with Research Triangle Institute, measured styrene emissions for several of these P2 options. In addition, the emission factors calculated from these test results were compared with the existing EPA emission factors for gel coat sprayup and resin applications. Results show that styrene emissions can be reduced by up to 52% by using controlled spraying (i.e., reducing overspray), low-styrene and styrene-suppressed materials, and nonatomizing application equipment. Also, calculated emission factors were 1.6-2.5 times greater than the mid-range EPA emission factors for the corresponding gel coat and resin application. These results indicate that facilities using existing EPA emission factors to estimate emissions in open molding processes are likely to underestimate actual emissions. Facilities should investigate the applicability and feasibility of these P2 options to reduce their styrene emissions.

  3. High resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of styrene oxide adsorption and reaction on Ag(1 1 1)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Piao, H.; Enever, M. C. N.; Adib, K.; Hrbek, J.; Barteau, M. A.

    2004-11-01

    Synchrotron-based X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been used to investigate the adsorption and reaction of styrene oxide on Ag(1 1 1). When adsorption is carried out at 250 K or above, ring opening of styrene oxide forms a stable surface oxametallacycle intermediate which eventually reacts at 485 K to regenerate styrene oxide. High resolution XPS is capable of distinguishing the oxametallacycle from molecularly adsorbed and condensed styrene oxide on the basis of different C1s peak separations. The observed separations are well accounted for by the results of DFT calculations.

  4. Morphological and physical behavior of styrenic, phosphonium-containing ionomers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beyer, Rick; Stokes, Kristoffer

    2010-03-01

    Despite many years of effort, a clear understanding of the factors controlling morphology in Nafion and other ionomers has not been achieved. The increasing need for fuel cell technology continues to drive efforts to develop materials having better performance characteristics even though fundamental structure-property relationships remain unclarified. Alkaline fuel cells (AFCs) present several benefits over proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, including cost of manufacture (less expensive catalysts) and a significantly shorter path to commercialization. Here we present the most recent findings from our efforts to examine structure-morphology-property relationships for a series of model cationic ionomers. A series of statistical copolymers of styrene and p-vinylbenzyl-trimethyl-phosphonium chloride have been prepared via RAFT polymerization, allowing us to investigate the effect of ion content on physical behavior. Chemical, physical, and morphological characterization has been undertaken using NMR, TGA, DSC, SAXS, and TEM.

  5. FAD C(4a)-hydroxide stabilized in a naturally fused styrene monooxygenase

    PubMed Central

    Schlömann, Michael; van Berkel, Willem J.H.; Gassner, George T.

    2013-01-01

    StyA2B represents a new class of styrene monooxygenases that integrates flavin-reductase and styrene-epoxidase activities into a single polypeptide. This naturally-occurring fusion protein offers new avenues for studying and engineering biotechnologically relevant enantioselective biochemical epoxidation reactions. Stopped-flow kinetic studies of StyA2B reported here identify reaction intermediates similar to those reported for the separate reductase and epoxidase components of related two-component systems. Our studies identify substrate epoxidation and elimination of water from the FAD C(4a)-hydroxide as rate-limiting steps in the styrene epoxidation reaction. Efforts directed at accelerating these reaction steps are expected to greatly increase catalytic efficiency and the value of StyA2B as biocatalyst. PMID:24157359

  6. Cellular effect of styrene substituted biscoumarin caused cellular apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human breast cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Perumalsamy, Haribalan; Sankarapandian, Karuppasamy; Kandaswamy, Narendran; Balusamy, Sri Renukadevi; Periyathambi, Dhaiveegan; Raveendiran, Nanthini

    2017-11-01

    Coumarins occurs naturally across plant kingdoms exhibits significant pharmacological properties and pharmacokinetic activity. The conventional, therapeutic agents are often associated with poor stability, absorption and increased side effects. Therefore, identification of a drug that has little or no-side effect on humans is consequential. Here, we investigated the antiproliferative activity of styrene substituted biscoumarin against various human breast cancer cell lines, such as MCF-7, (ER-) MDA-MB-231 and (AR+) MDA-MB-453. Styrene substituted biscoumarin induced cell death by apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cell line was analyzed. Antiproliferative activity of Styrene substituted biscoumarin was performed by using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Styrene substituted biscoumarin induced apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst staining, Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide (Annexin V-FITC/PI) staining and flow cytometric analysis. Migratory and proliferating characteristic of breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 was also analyzed by wound healing and colony formation assay. Furthermore, mRNA expression of BAX and BCL-2 were quantified using qRT-PCR and protein expression level analyzed by Western blot. The inhibition concentration (IC 50 ) of styrene substituted biscoumarin was assayed against three breast cancer cell lines. The inhibition concentration (IC 50 ) value of styrene substituted biscoumarin toward MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-453 and MCF-7 cell lines was 5.63, 7.30 and 10.84μg/ml respectively. Styrene substituted biscoumarin induced apoptosis was detected by Hoechst staining, DAPI/PI analysis and flow-cytometric analysis. The migration and proliferative efficiency of MDA-MB-231 cells were completely arrested upon styrene substituted biscoumarin treatment. Also, mRNA gene expression and protein expression of pro-apoptotic (BAX) and anti-apoptotic (BCL-2) genes were analyzed by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis upon

  7. ADDENDUM TO ASSESSMENT OF STYRENE EMISSION CONTROLS FOR FRP/C AND BOAT BUILDING INDUSTRIES

    EPA Science Inventory

    This report is an addendum to a 1996 report, Assessment of Styrene Emission Controls for FRP/C and Boat Building Industries. It presents additional evaluation of the biological treatment of styrene emissions, Dow Chemical Company's Sorbathene solvent vapor recovery system, Occupa...

  8. Based on an analysis of mode of action, styrene-induced mouse lung tumors are not a human cancer concern.

    PubMed

    Cruzan, George; Bus, James S; Andersen, Melvin E; Carlson, Gary P; Banton, Marcy I; Sarang, Satinder S; Waites, Robbie

    2018-06-01

    Based on 13 chronic studies, styrene exposure causes lung tumors in mice, but no tumor increases in other organs in mice or rats. Extensive research into the mode of action demonstrates the key events and human relevance. Key events are: metabolism of styrene by CYP2F2 in mouse lung club cells to ring-oxidized metabolites; changes in gene expression for metabolism of lipids and lipoproteins, cell cycle and mitotic M-M/G1 phases; cytotoxicity and mitogenesis in club cells; and progression to preneoplastic/neoplastic lesions in lung. Although styrene-7,8-oxide (SO) is a common genotoxic styrene metabolite in in vitro studies, the data clearly demonstrate that SO is not the proximate toxicant and that styrene does not induce a genotoxic mode of action. Based on complete attenuation of styrene short-term and chronic toxicity in CYP2F2 knockout mice and similar attenuation in CYP2F1 (humanized) transgenic mice, limited metabolism of styrene in human lung by CYP2F1, 2 + orders of magnitude lower SO levels in human lung compared to mouse lung, and lack of styrene-related increase in lung cancer in humans, styrene does not present a risk of cancer to humans. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Solvent effect on post-irradiation grafting of styrene onto poly(ethylene-alt-tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Napoleão Geraldes, Adriana; Augusto Zen, Heloísa; Ribeiro, Geise; Fernandes Parra, Duclerc; Benévolo Lugão, Ademar

    2013-03-01

    Radiation-induced grafting of styrene onto ETFE films in different solvent was investigated after simultaneous irradiation (in post-irradiation condition) using a 60Co source. Grafting of styrene followed by sulfonation onto poly(ethylene-alt-tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) are currently studied for synthesis of ion exchange membranes. The ETFE films were immersed in styrene/toluene, styrene/methanol and styrene/isopropyl alcohol and irradiated at 20 and 100 kGy doses at room temperature. The post-irradiation time was established at 14 day and the grafting degree was evaluated. The grafted films were sulfonated using chlorosulfonic acid and 1,2-dichloroethane 20:80 (v/v) at room temperature for 5 h. The degree of grafting (DOG) was determined gravimetrically and physical or chemical changes were evaluated by differential scanning calorimeter analysis (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ion exchange capacity (IEC) values showed the best performance of sulfonation for ETFE membranes grafted in toluene solvent. Surface images of the grafted films by SEM technique have presented a strong effect of the solvents on the films morphology.

  10. Estimation of the percutaneous absorption of styrene in an industrial situation.

    PubMed

    Limasset, J C; Simon, P; Poirot, P; Subra, I; Grzebyk, M

    1999-01-01

    This field study was designed to compare the level of styrene absorbed percutaneously with that absorbed by inhalation in a real situation in the fiberglass-reinforced polyester industry. The study protocol consisted of comparisons of the patterns of urinary excretion of styrene metabolites by four groups of workers, all of whom performed the same task at the same time in the same workshop but wore the following different protective equipment: total protection with an insulating suit and mask, respiratory equipment only, percutaneous protection only, and no protection. The urinary excretion level of the group with total protection did not significantly differ from that of the group with respiratory protection only. Precutaneous absorption is not a particularly important pathway for styrene absorption during stratification work in the polyester industry. Completely insulating personal protective equipment provides no greater level of protection than does a respirator at positive pressure alone.

  11. Biofiltration of air contaminated by styrene: Effect of nitrogen supply, gas flow rate, and inlet concentration

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jorio, H.; Bibeau, L.; Heitz, M.

    2000-05-01

    The biofiltration process is a promising technology for the treatment of dilute styrene emissions in air. The efficiency of this process is however strongly dependent upon various operational parameters such as the filter bed characteristics, nutrient supplies, input contaminant concentrations, and gas flow rates. The biofiltration of air containing styrene vapors was therefore investigated, employing a novel biomass filter material, in two identical but separate laboratory scale biofiltration units (units 1 and 2), both biofilters being initially inoculated with a microbial consortium. Each biofilter was irrigated with a nutrient solution supplying nitrogen in one of two forms; i.e., mainly asmore » ammonia for unit 1 and exclusively as nitrate for unit 2. The experimental results have revealed that greater styrene elimination rates are achieved in the biofilter supplied with ammonia as the major nitrogen source in comparison to the lesser elimination performance obtained with the nitrate provided biofilter. However, in achieving the high styrene removal rates in the ammonia supplied biofilter, the excess of biomass accumulates on the filtering pellets and causes progressive clogging of the filter media. Furthermore, the effectiveness of nitrate supply as the sole nitrogen nutrient form, on reducing or controlling the biomass accumulation in the filter media in comparison to ammonia, could not be satisfactorily demonstrated because the two biofilters operated with very different styrene elimination capacities. The monitoring of the carbon dioxide concentration profile through both biofilters revealed that the ratio of carbon dioxide produced to the styrene removed was approximately 3/1, which confirms the complete biodegradation of removed styrene, given that some of the organic carbon consumed is also used for the microbial growth. The effects of the most important design parameters, namely styrene input concentrations and gas flow rates, were investigated for

  12. Inducing Order from Disordered Copolymers: On Demand Generation of Triblock Morphologies Including Networks

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tureau, Maëva S.; Kuan, Wei-Fan; Rong, Lixia

    Disordered block copolymers are generally impractical in nanopatterning applications due to their inability to self-assemble into well-defined nanostructures. However, inducing order in low molecular weight disordered systems permits the design of periodic structures with smaller characteristic sizes. Here, we have induced nanoscale phase separation from disordered triblock copolymer melts to form well-ordered lamellae, hexagonally packed cylinders, and a triply periodic gyroid network structure, using a copolymer/homopolymer blending approach, which incorporates constituent homopolymers into selective block domains. This versatile blending approach allows one to precisely target multiple nanostructures from a single disordered material and can be applied to a wide varietymore » of triblock copolymer systems for nanotemplating and nanoscale separation applications requiring nanoscale feature sizes and/or high areal feature densities.« less

  13. Kinetics and mechanism of styrene epoxidation by chlorite: role of chlorine dioxide.

    PubMed

    Leigh, Jessica K; Rajput, Jonathan; Richardson, David E

    2014-07-07

    An investigation of the kinetics and mechanism for epoxidation of styrene and para-substituted styrenes by chlorite at 25 °C in the pH range of 5-6 is described. The proposed mechanism in water and water/acetonitrile includes seven oxidation states of chlorine (-I, 0, I, II, III, IV, and V) to account for the observed kinetics and product distributions. The model provides an unusually detailed quantitative mechanism for the complex reactions that occur in mixtures of chlorine species and organic substrates, particularly when the strong oxidant chlorite is employed. Kinetic control of the reaction is achieved by the addition of chlorine dioxide to the reaction mixture, thereby eliminating a substantial induction period observed when chlorite is used alone. The epoxidation agent is identified as chlorine dioxide, which is continually formed by the reaction of chlorite with hypochlorous acid that results from ClO produced by the epoxidation reaction. The overall stoichiometry is the result of two competing chain reactions in which the reactive intermediate ClO reacts with either chlorine dioxide or chlorite ion to produce hypochlorous acid and chlorate or chloride, respectively. At high chlorite ion concentrations, HOCl is rapidly eliminated by reaction with chlorite, minimizing side reactions between HOCl and Cl2 with the starting material. Epoxide selectivity (>90% under optimal conditions) is accurately predicted by the kinetic model. The model rate constant for direct reaction of styrene with ClO2(aq) to produce epoxide is (1.16 ± 0.07) × 10(-2) M(-1) s(-1) for 60:40 water/acetonitrile with 0.20 M acetate buffer. Rate constants for para substituted styrenes (R = -SO3(-), -OMe, -Me, -Cl, -H, and -NO2) with ClO2 were determined. The results support the radical addition/elimination mechanism originally proposed by Kolar and Lindgren to account for the formation of styrene oxide in the reaction of styrene with chlorine dioxide.

  14. The chemistry of dimethacrylate-styrene networks, and, Development of flame retardant, halogen-free fiber reinforced vinyl ester composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rosario, Astrid Christa

    One of the major classes of polymer matrix resins under consideration for structural composite applications in the infrastructure and construction industries is vinyl ester resin. Vinyl ester resin is comprised of low molecular weight poly(hydroxyether) oligomers with methacrylate endgroups diluted with styrene monomer. The methacrylate endgroups cure with styrene via free radical copolymerization to yield thermoset networks. The copolymerization behavior of these networks was monitored by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) at various cure conditions. Reactions of the carbon-carbon double bonds of the methacrylate (943 cm-1) and styrene (910 cm-1 ) were followed independently. Oligomers possessing number average molecular weights of 700 g/mole were studied with systematically increasing levels of styrene. The Mortimer-Tidwell reactivity ratios indicated that at low conversion more styrene was incorporated into the network at lower cure temperatures. The experimental vinyl ester-styrene network compositions deviated significantly from those predicted by the Meyer-Lowry integrated copolymer equation at higher conversion, implying that the reactivity ratios for these networks may change with conversion. The kinetic data were used to provide additional insight into the physical and mechanical properties of these materials. In addition to establishing the copolymerization kinetics of these materials, the development of halogen free fiber reinforced vinyl ester composites exhibiting good flame properties was of interest. Flame retardant vinyl ester resins are used by many industries for applications requiring good thermal resistance. The current flame-retardant technology is dependent on brominated vinyl esters, which generate high levels of smoke and carbon monoxide. A series of halogen free binder systems has been developed and dispersed in the vinyl ester to improve flame retardance. The binder approach enables the vinyl ester resin to maintain its low

  15. Adsorption of ethoxylated styrene oxide and polyacrylic acid and mixtures there of on organic pigment.

    PubMed

    Wijting, W K; Laven, J; van Benthem, R A T M; de With, G

    2008-11-01

    The adsorption of two polymeric surfactants on an organic pigment was investigated. As surfactants the anionic polyacrylic acid sodium salt (PANa, M(W)=15,000) and a non-ionic block copolymer surfactant based on styrene oxide (SO) and ethylene oxide (EO) (M(W)=1500) were used. The adsorption behavior was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography of the supernatant after centrifugation of the pigment dispersions. It was found that PANa has no affinity to the pigment, whereas SO-EO has a strong affinity to the pigment surface. Competitive adsorption of PANa and SO-EO was not observed. Addition of SO-EO yields stable dispersions.

  16. Biofiltration of mixtures of gas-phase styrene and acetone with the fungus Sporothrix variecibatus.

    PubMed

    Rene, Eldon R; Spačková, Radka; Veiga, María C; Kennes, Christian

    2010-12-15

    The biodegradation performance of a biofilter, inoculated with the fungus Sporothrix variecibatus, to treat gas-phase styrene and acetone mixtures under steady-state and transient conditions was evaluated. Experiments were carried out by varying the gas-flow rates (0.05-0.4m(3)h(-1)), leading to empty bed residence times as low as 17.1s, and by changing the concentrations of gas-phase styrene (0.01-6.3 g m(-3)) and acetone (0.01-8.9 g m(-3)). The total elimination capacities were as high as 360 g m(-3)h(-1), with nearly 97.5% removal of styrene and 75.6% for acetone. The biodegradation of acetone was inhibited by the presence of styrene, while styrene removal was affected only slightly by the presence of acetone. During transient-state experiments, increasing the overall pollutant load by almost 3-fold, i.e., from 220 to 600 g m(-3)h(-1), resulted in a sudden drop of removal efficiency (>90-70%), but still high elimination capacities were maintained. Periodic microscopic observations revealed that the originally inoculated Sporothrix sp. remained present in the reactor and actively dominant in the biofilm. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Enhanced styrene recovery from waste polystyrene pyrolysis using response surface methodology coupled with Box-Behnken design.

    PubMed

    Mo, Yu; Zhao, Lei; Wang, Zhonghui; Chen, Chia-Lung; Tan, Giin-Yu Amy; Wang, Jing-Yuan

    2014-04-01

    A work applied response surface methodology coupled with Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD) has been developed to enhance styrene recovery from waste polystyrene (WPS) through pyrolysis. The relationship between styrene yield and three selected operating parameters (i.e., temperature, heating rate, and carrier gas flow rate) was investigated. A second order polynomial equation was successfully built to describe the process and predict styrene yield under the study conditions. The factors identified as statistically significant to styrene production were: temperature, with a quadratic effect; heating rate, with a linear effect; carrier gas flow rate, with a quadratic effect; interaction between temperature and carrier gas flow rate; and interaction between heating rate and carrier gas flow rate. The optimum conditions for the current system were determined to be at a temperature range of 470-505°C, a heating rate of 40°C/min, and a carrier gas flow rate range of 115-140mL/min. Under such conditions, 64.52% WPS was recovered as styrene, which was 12% more than the highest reported yield for reactors of similar size. It is concluded that RSM-BBD is an effective approach for yield optimization of styrene recovery from WPS pyrolysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. ENGINEERING THE BIOSYNTHESIS OF STYRENE IN YEAST

    EPA Science Inventory

    The strategy pursued was to insert genes for phenylalanine ammonia lysase (pal) and phenolic acid decarboxylase (pad) into the yeast that would convert phenylalanine to styrene through a cinnamic acid intermediate.

    Occupational exposure to styrene in the fibreglass reinforced plastic industry: comparison between two different manufacturing processes.

    PubMed

    Tranfo, Giovanna; Gherardi, Monica; Paci, E; Gatto, Mariapia; Gordiani, A; Caporossi, Lidia; Capanna, Silvia; Sisto, Renata; Papaleo, B; Fiumalbi, Carla; Garofani, Patrizia

    2012-01-01

    Styrene is used in manufacturing fiberglass reinforced plastics: and occupational exposure was related to neurotoxicology and genotoxicity. The sum of the metabolites mandelic and phenylglyoxylic acids is the ACGIH biomarker for occupational exposure with a BEI of 400 mg/g of creatinine in end shift urine corresponding to a airborne styrene concentration of 85 mg/m3. There are two main molding processes, open and closed, the last more effective at controlling worker's styrene exposure. To compare the open molding process to the compression of fiber reinforced resin foils, a kind of closed molding, monitoring the styrene exposure of workers in two production sites (A and B). Environmental Monitoring was carried out by Radiello samplers and Biological Monitoring by means of the determination of MA and PGA with HPLC/MS/MS in 10 workers at Site A and 14 at Site B. The median values for styrene exposure resulted 31.1 mg/m3 for Site A and 24.4 mg/m for Site B, while the medians for the sum of the two metabolites in the end shift urine were 86.7 e 33.8 mg/g creatinine respectively. There is a significant linear correlation between personal styrene exposure and the excretion of styrene metabolites (R = 0.74). As expected the exposure markers of the workers of the two production sites resulted higher in the open process. The analytical results of both environmental and biological monitoring were all below the occupational exposure limits, confirming the efficacy of the protective devices.

  19. Cancer mortality in an international cohort of reinforced plastics workers exposed to styrene: a reanalysis.

    PubMed

    Loomis, Dana; Guha, Neela; Kogevinas, Manolis; Fontana, Vincenzo; Gennaro, Valerio; Kolstad, Henrik A; McElvenny, Damien Martin; Sallmén, Markku; Saracci, Rodolfo

    2018-04-17

    To investigate the carcinogenicity of styrene by reanalysing data from a previous international cohort study of workers in the reinforced plastics industry. Mortality from cancers of prior interest was analysed with more detailed consideration of exposure-response relations and an updated classification of leukaemias and lymphomas in data from a previous international cohort study of 37 021 reinforced plastics workers exposed to airborne styrene. Increased mortality from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) was associated with the mean level of exposure to styrene in air (relative risk (RR) 2.31, 95% CI 1.29 to 4.12 per 100 ppm), but not with cumulative styrene exposure. Similar associations with mean exposure were observed for the oesophagus (RR 2.44, 95% CI 1.11 to 5.36 per 100 ppm) and pancreas (RR 1.89, 95% CI 1.17 to 3.09). Oesophageal cancer mortality was also associated with cumulative styrene exposure lagged 20 years (RR 1.16, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.31). No other cancer, including lung cancer, was associated with any indicator of styrene exposure. This reanalysis does not substantially change the conclusions of the original study with respect to NHL or lung cancer but new evidence concerning cancers of the oesophagus and pancreas merits further investigation. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  1. Depletion by styrene of glutathione in plasma and bronchioalveolar lavage fluid of non-Swiss albino (NSA) mice.

    PubMed

    Carlson, Gary P

    2010-01-01

    Styrene is a widely used chemical, but it is known to produce lung and liver damage in mice. This may be related to oxidative stress associated with the decrease in the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the target tissues. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of styrene and its primary metabolites R-styrene oxide (R-SO) and S-styrene oxide (S-SO) on GSH levels in the lung lumen, as determined by amounts of GSH in bronchioalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and in plasma. When non-Swiss albino (NSA) mice were administered styrene (600 mg/kg, ip), there was a significant fall in GSH levels in both BALF and plasma within 3 h. These returned to control levels by 12 h. The active metabolite R-SO (300 mg/kg, ip) also produced significant decreases in GSH in both BALF and plasma, but S-SO was without marked effect. Since GSH is a principal antioxidant in the lung epithelial lining fluid, this fall due to styrene may exert a significant influence on the ability of the lung to buffer oxidative damage.

  2. A POLYMER-CERAMIC COMPOSITE MEMBRANE FOR RECOVERING VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM WASTEWATERS BY PERVAPORATION

    EPA Science Inventory

    A composite membrane was constructed on a porous ceramic support from a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene (SBS). It was tested in a laboratory pervaporation apparatus for recovering volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such a 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA) and trichloroethylene ...

  3. Styrene induces an inflammatory response in human lung epithelial cells via oxidative stress and NF-{kappa}B activation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Roeder-Stolinski, Carmen; Fischaeder, Gundula; Oostingh, Gertie Janneke

    2008-09-01

    Styrene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that is widely used as a solvent in many industrial settings. Chronic exposure to styrene can result in irritation of the mucosa of the upper respiratory tract. Contact of styrene with epithelial cells stimulates the expression of a variety of inflammatory mediators, including the chemotactic cytokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). To characterise the underlying mechanisms of the induction of inflammatory signals by styrene, we investigated the influence of this compound on the induction of oxidative stress and the activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-{kappa}B) signalling pathway in human lung epithelial cells (A549).more » The results demonstrate that styrene-induced MCP-1 expression, as well as the expression of the oxidative stress marker glutathione S-transferase (GST), is associated with a concentration dependent pattern of NF-{kappa}B activity. An inhibitor of NF-{kappa}B, IKK-NBD, and the anti-inflammatory antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) were both effective in suppressing styrene-induced MCP-1 secretion. In addition, NAC was capable of inhibiting the upregulation of GST expression. Our findings suggest that the activation of the NF-{kappa}B signalling pathway by styrene is mediated via a redox-sensitive mechanism.« less

  4. Biotrickling filter modeling for styrene abatement. Part 2: Simulating a two-phase partitioning bioreactor.

    PubMed

    San-Valero, Pau; Dorado, Antonio D; Quijano, Guillermo; Álvarez-Hornos, F Javier; Gabaldón, Carmen

    2018-01-01

    A dynamic model describing styrene abatement was developed for a two-phase partitioning bioreactor operated as a biotrickling filter (TPPB-BTF). The model was built as a coupled set of two different systems of partial differential equations depending on whether an irrigation or a non-irrigation period was simulated. The maximum growth rate was previously calibrated from a conventional BTF treating styrene (Part 1). The model was extended to simulate the TPPB-BTF based on the hypothesis that the main change associated with the non-aqueous phase is the modification of the pollutant properties in the liquid phase. The three phases considered were gas, a water-silicone liquid mixture, and biofilm. The selected calibration parameters were related to the physical properties of styrene: Henry's law constant, diffusivity, and the gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient. A sensitivity analysis revealed that Henry's law constant was the most sensitive parameter. The model was successfully calibrated with a goodness of fit of 0.94. It satisfactorily simulated the performance of the TPPB-BTF at styrene loads ranging from 13 to 77 g C m -3 h -1 and empty bed residence times of 30-15 s with the mass transfer enhanced by a factor of 1.6. The model was validated with data obtained in a TPPB-BTF removing styrene continuously. The experimental outlet emissions associated to oscillating inlet concentrations were satisfactorily predicted by using the calibrated parameters. Model simulations demonstrated the potential improvement of the mass-transfer performance of a conventional BTF degrading styrene by adding silicone oil. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. 40 CFR 721.6920 - Butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 30 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Butyl acrylate, polymer with... acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane. (a... butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane...

  6. 40 CFR 721.6920 - Butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Butyl acrylate, polymer with... acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane. (a... butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane...

  7. 40 CFR 721.6920 - Butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Butyl acrylate, polymer with... acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane. (a... butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane...

  8. 40 CFR 721.6920 - Butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Butyl acrylate, polymer with... acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane. (a... butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane...

  9. Occupational exposures to styrene vapor in a manufacturing plant for fiber-reinforced composite wind turbine blades.

    PubMed

    Hammond, Duane; Garcia, Alberto; Feng, H Amy

    2011-07-01

    A utility-scale wind turbine blade manufacturing plant requested assistance from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in controlling worker exposures to styrene at a plant that produced 37 and 42 m long fiber-reinforced wind turbine blades. The plant requested NIOSH assistance because previous air sampling conducted by the company indicated concerns about peak styrene concentrations when workers entered the confined space inside of the wind turbine blade. NIOSH researchers conducted two site visits and collected personal breathing zone and area air samples while workers performed the wind turbine blade manufacturing tasks of vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), gelcoating, glue wiping, and installing the safety platform. All samples were collected during the course of normal employee work activities and analyzed for styrene using NIOSH Method 1501. All sampling was task based since full-shift sampling from a prior Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance inspection did not show any exposures to styrene above the OSHA permissible exposure limit. During the initial NIOSH site visit, 67 personal breathing zone and 18 area air samples were collected while workers performed tasks of VARTM, gelcoating, glue wipe, and installation of a safety platform. After the initial site visit, the company made changes to the glue wipe task that eliminated the need for workers to enter the confined space inside of the wind turbine blade. During the follow-up site visit, 12 personal breathing zone and 8 area air samples were collected from workers performing the modified glue wipe task. During the initial site visit, the geometric means of the personal breathing zone styrene air samples were 1.8 p.p.m. (n = 21) for workers performing the VARTM task, 68 p.p.m. (n = 5) for workers installing a safety platform, and 340 p.p.m. (n = 14) for workers performing the glue wipe task, where n is the number of workers sampled for a

  10. Predominant 1,2-insertion of styrene in the Pd-catalyzed alternating copolymerization with carbon monoxide.

    PubMed

    Nozaki, K; Komaki, H; Kawashima, Y; Hiyama, T; Matsubara, T

    2001-01-31

    The regioselectivity of styrene insertion to an acyl-Pd bond was studied by NMR in (i) a stoichiomeric reaction and (ii) a copolymerization with CO. In the stoichiometric reaction of styrene with [(CH(3)CO)Pd(CH(3)CN)[(R,S)-BINAPHOS

  11. POTENTIAL FOR REDUCING INDOOR STYRENE EXPOSURE FROM COPIED PAPER THROUGH USE OF LOW-EMITTING TONERS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Tests were conducted, using 53-L dynamic chambers, to determine airborne styrene emission rates over time from freshly copied paper. Copies were produced on a single photocopier, using two toners manufactured for this copier but having different styrene contents. The resulting em...

  12. Global styrene oligomers monitoring as new chemical contamination from polystyrene plastic marine pollution.

    PubMed

    Kwon, Bum Gun; Koizumi, Koshiro; Chung, Seon-Yong; Kodera, Yoichi; Kim, Jong-Oh; Saido, Katsuhiko

    2015-12-30

    Polystyrene (PS) plastic marine pollution is an environmental concern. However, a reliable and objective assessment of the scope of this problem, which can lead to persistent organic contaminants, has yet to be performed. Here, we show that anthropogenic styrene oligomers (SOs), a possible indicator of PS pollution in the ocean, are found globally at concentrations that are higher than those expected based on the stability of PS. SOs appear to persist to varying degrees in the seawater and sand samples collected from beaches around the world. The most persistent forms are styrene monomer, styrene dimer, and styrene trimer. Sand samples from beaches, which are commonly recreation sites, are particularly polluted with these high SOs concentrations. This finding is of interest from both scientific and public perspectives because SOs may pose potential long-term risks to the environment in combination with other endocrine disrupting chemicals. From SOs monitoring results, this study proposes a flow diagram for SOs leaching from PS cycle. Using this flow diagram, we conclude that SOs are global contaminants in sandy beaches around the world due to their broad spatial distribution. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. 21 CFR 178.3790 - Polymer modifiers in semirigid and rigid vinyl chloride plastics.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ...), (ii), and (iii) of this section; provided that no chemical reactions, other than addition reactions... their polymerization with butadiene-styrene copolymers; provided that no chemical reactions, other than addition reactions, occur when they are combined. Such combined polymers may contain 50 weight-percent or...

  14. 21 CFR 178.3790 - Polymer modifiers in semirigid and rigid vinyl chloride plastics.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... chemical reactions, other than addition reactions, occur when they are mixed. (2) Polymers identified in...; provided that no chemical reactions, other than addition reactions, occur when they are combined. Such... weight-percent of polymer units derived from butadiene-styrene copolymers. (c) No chemical reactions...

  15. 21 CFR 178.3790 - Polymer modifiers in semirigid and rigid vinyl chloride plastics.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... chemical reactions, other than addition reactions, occur when they are mixed. (2) Polymers identified in...; provided that no chemical reactions, other than addition reactions, occur when they are combined. Such... weight-percent of polymer units derived from butadiene-styrene copolymers. (c) No chemical reactions...

  16. Melt processing and property testing of a model system of plastics contained in waste from electrical and electronic equipment.

    PubMed

    Triantou, Marianna I; Tarantili, Petroula A; Andreopoulos, Andreas G

    2015-05-01

    In the present research, blending of polymers used in electrical and electronic equipment, i.e. acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer, polycarbonate and polypropylene, was performed in a twin-screw extruder, in order to explore the effect process parameters on the mixture properties, in an attempt to determine some characteristics of a fast and economical procedure for waste management. The addition of polycarbonate in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer seemed to increase its thermal stability. Also, the addition of polypropylene in acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer facilitates its melt processing, whereas the addition of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer in polypropylene improves its mechanical performance. Moreover, the upgrading of the above blends by incorporating 2 phr organically modified montmorillonite was investigated. The prepared nanocomposites exhibit greater tensile strength, elastic modulus and storage modulus, as well as higher melt viscosity, compared with the unreinforced blends. The incorporation of montmorillonite nanoplatelets in polycarbonate-rich acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer/polycarbonate blends turns the thermal degradation mechanism into a two-stage process. Alternatively to mechanical recycling, the energy recovery from the combustion of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer/polycarbonate and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer/polypropylene blends was recorded by measuring the gross calorific value. Comparing the investigated polymers, polypropylene presents the higher gross calorific value, followed by acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene terpolymer and then polycarbonate. The above study allows a rough comparative evaluation of various methodologies for treating plastics from waste from electrical and electronic equipment. © The Author(s) 2015.

  17. Impact property enhancement of poly (lactic acid) with different flexible copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Likittanaprasong, N.; Seadan, M.; Suttiruengwong, S.

    2015-07-01

    The objective of this work was to improve the impact property of Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) by blending with different copolymers. Six flexible copolymers, namely, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) powder, Biomax, polybutyrate adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT), polyether block amide (PEBAX), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and ethylene acrylic elastomer (EAE), with loading less than 20wt% were used and compared. The rheological, mechanical and morphological properties of samples were investigated by melt flow index, tensile testing, impact testing and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. It was found that PLA added 20wt% EAE showed the highest impact strength (59.5 kJ/m2), which was 22 times higher than neat PLA. The elongation at break was also increased by 12 folds compared to neat PLA. The SEM images showed good interface and distribution for PLA containing 20wt% EAE, 15 phr Biomax and 20 wt% PEBAX.

  18. Halonium ion-assisted deiodination of styrene-based vicinal iodohydrins followed by rearrangement through phenyl migration.

    PubMed

    Agrawal, Manoj K; Ghosh, Pushpito K

    2009-10-16

    Acid activation of bromate/bromide couple at 0-10 degrees C was found to trigger the deiodination of styrene-based vicinal iodohydrins. Violet coloration of the organic layer was ascribed to formation of IBr. Deiodination was followed by phenyl migration and deprotonation leading to formation of phenyl acetone and 2-phenylpropanal in good yields from 1-iodo-2-phenylpropan-2-ol and 2-iodo-1-phenylpropan-1-ol, respectively. Phenyl acetaldehyde--which was obtained in 92% GC yield from styrene iodohydrin--was also presumably formed in analogous manner. NBS and HOCl too were effective for transformation of styrene iodohydrin into phenyl acetaldehyde.

  19. Styrene Oxide Isomerase of Rhodococcus opacus 1CP, a Highly Stable and Considerably Active Enzyme

    PubMed Central

    Gröning, Janosch A. D.; Tischler, Dirk; Kaschabek, Stefan R.; Schlömann, Michael

    2012-01-01

    Styrene oxide isomerase (SOI) is involved in peripheral styrene catabolism of bacteria and converts styrene oxide to phenylacetaldehyde. Here, we report on the identification, enrichment, and biochemical characterization of a novel representative from the actinobacterium Rhodococcus opacus 1CP. The enzyme, which is strongly induced during growth on styrene, was shown to be membrane integrated, and a convenient procedure was developed to highly enrich the protein in active form from the wild-type host. A specific activity of about 370 U mg−1 represents the highest activity reported for this enzyme class so far. This, in combination with a wide pH and temperature tolerance, the independence from cofactors, and the ability to convert a spectrum of substituted styrene oxides, makes a biocatalytic application imaginable. First, semipreparative conversions were performed from which up to 760 μmol of the pure phenylacetaldehyde could be obtained from 130 U of enriched SOI. Product concentrations of up to 76 mM were achieved. However, due to the high chemical reactivity of the aldehyde function, SOI was shown to be the subject of an irreversible product inhibition. A half-life of 15 min was determined at a phenylacetaldehyde concentration of about 55 mM, indicating substantial limitations of applicability and the need to modify the process. PMID:22504818

  20. Cancer Incidence in Workers Exposed to Styrene in the Danish-reinforced Plastics Industry, 1968-2012.

    PubMed

    Christensen, Mette Skovgaard; Hansen, Johnni; Ramlau-Hansen, Cecilia Høst; Toft, Gunnar; Kolstad, Henrik

    2017-03-01

    Occupational exposure to styrene is widespread and has been suggested to be carcinogenic. The aim of this study was to investigate whether occupational exposure to styrene increases the risk of cancer, in particular lymphohematopoietic cancers. We established a study population of 72,292 workers employed in 443 small and medium-sized companies producing reinforced plastics 1964-2007 by utilizing several national registries, expert assessment, and worker survey data. We identified incident cancer cases from 1968 to 2012 in the national Danish cancer registry and computed standardized incidence rate ratios (SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) based on national rates. Increasing SIRs of Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloid leukemia, and cancer of nasal cavities and sinuses were inconsistently associated with increasing duration of employment, early year of first employment, or styrene exposure probability. No such trends were observed for cancer of the esophagus, pancreas, lung, kidney, or urinary bladder, which have previously been associated with styrene exposure. Lung cancer showed an overall increased risk that decreased by duration of employment. Occupational styrene exposure may be associated with Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloid leukemia, and cancer of nasal cavities and sinuses. Further studies are needed to evaluate if the observed associations are likely to be causal.

  1. A biofilter integrated with gas membrane separation unit for the treatment of fluctuating styrene loads.

    PubMed

    Li, Lin; Lian, Jing; Han, Yunping; Liu, Junxin

    2012-05-01

    Biofiltration for volatile organic compound control in waste gas streams is best operated at steady contaminant loadings. To provide long-term stable operation of a biofilter under adverse contaminant feeding conditions, an integrated bioreactor system with a gas separation membrane module installed after a biofilter was proposed for styrene treatment. Styrene was treated effectively, with average styrene effluent concentrations maintained at less than 50 mg m(-3) and a total removal efficiency of over 96% achieved when the biofiltration column faced fluctuating loads. The maximum elimination capacity of the integrated bioreactor system was 93.8 g m(-3)h(-1), which was higher than that obtained with the biofiltration column alone. The combination of these two processes (microbial and chemical) led to more efficient elimination of styrene and buffering of the fluctuating loads. The factors on gas membrane separation, microbial characteristics in the integrated bioreactor and membrane fouling were also investigated in this study. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Assessment of Styrene Oxide Neurotoxicity Using In Vitro Auditory Cortex Networks

    PubMed Central

    Gopal, Kamakshi V.; Wu, Calvin; Moore, Ernest J.; Gross, Guenter W.

    2011-01-01

    Styrene oxide (SO) (C8H8O), the major metabolite of styrene (C6H5CH=CH2), is widely used in industrial applications. Styrene and SO are neurotoxic and cause damaging effects on the auditory system. However, little is known about their concentration-dependent electrophysiological and morphological effects. We used spontaneously active auditory cortex networks (ACNs) growing on microelectrode arrays (MEA) to characterize neurotoxic effects of SO. Acute application of 0.1 to 3.0 mM SO showed concentration-dependent inhibition of spike activity with no noticeable morphological changes. The spike rate IC50 (concentration inducing 50% inhibition) was 511 ± 60 μM (n = 10). Subchronic (5 hr) single applications of 0.5 mM SO also showed 50% activity reduction with no overt changes in morphology. The results imply that electrophysiological toxicity precedes cytotoxicity. Five-hour exposures to 2 mM SO revealed neuronal death, irreversible activity loss, and pronounced glial swelling. Paradoxical “protection” by 40 μM bicuculline suggests binding of SO to GABA receptors. PMID:23724250

  3. The emissions of monoaromatic hydrocarbons from small polymeric toys placed in chocolate food products.

    PubMed

    Marć, Mariusz; Formela, Krzysztof; Klein, Marek; Namieśnik, Jacek; Zabiegała, Bożena

    2015-10-15

    The article presents findings on the emissions of selected monoaromatic hydrocarbons from children's toys placed in chocolate food products. The emission test system involved the application of a new type of microscale stationary emission chamber, μ-CTE™ 250. In order to determine the type of the applied polymer in the manufacture of the tested toys, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis coupled with differential scanning calorimetry were used. It was found that the tested toy components or the whole toys (figurines) are made of two main types of polymers: polyamide and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer. Total number of studied small polymeric toys was 52. The average emissions of selected monoaromatic hydrocarbons from studied toys made of polyamide were as follows: benzene: 0.45 ± 0.33 ng/g; toluene: 3.3 ± 2.6 ng/g; ethylbenzene: 1.4 ± 1.4 ng/g; p,m-xylene: 2.5 ± 4.5 ng/g; and styrene: 8.2 ± 9.9 ng/g. In the case of studied toys made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer the average emissions of benzene, toluene, ethylbeznene, p,m-xylene and styrene were: 0.31 ± 0.29 ng/g; 2.5 ± 1.4 ng/g; 4.6 ± 8.9 ng/g; 1.4 ± 1.1 ng/g; and 36 ± 44 ng/g, respectively. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  4. Styrene-maleic acid-copolymer conjugated zinc protoporphyrin as a candidate drug for tumor-targeted therapy and imaging.

    PubMed

    Fang, Jun; Tsukigawa, Kenji; Liao, Long; Yin, Hongzhuan; Eguchi, Kanami; Maeda, Hiroshi

    2016-01-01

    Previous studies indicated the potential of zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP) as an antitumor agent targeting to the tumor survival factor heme oxygenase-1, and/or for photodynamic therapy (PDT). In this study, to achieve tumor-targeted delivery, styrene-maleic acid-copolymer conjugated ZnPP (SMA-ZnPP) was synthesized via amide bond, which showed good water solubility, having ZnPP loading of 15%. More importantly, it forms micelles in aqueous solution with a mean particle size of 111.6 nm, whereas it has an apparent Mw of 65 kDa. This micelle formation was not detracted by serum albumin, suggesting it is stable in circulation. Further SMA-ZnPP conjugate will behave as an albumin complex in blood with much larger size (235 kDa) by virtue of the albumin binding property of SMA. Consequently, SMA-ZnPP conjugate exhibited prolonged circulating retention and preferential tumor accumulation by taking advantage of enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Clear tumor imaging was thus achieved by detecting the fluorescence of ZnPP. In addition, the cytotoxicity and PDT effect of SMA-ZnPP conjugate was confirmed in human cervical cancer HeLa cells. Light irradiation remarkably increased the cytotoxicity (IC50, from 33 to 5 μM). These findings may provide new options and knowledge for developing ZnPP based anticancer theranostic drugs.

  5. Improved biocompatibility of poly (styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) elastomer by a surface graft polymerization of hyaluronic acid.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiaomeng; Luan, Shifang; Shi, Hengchong; Yang, Huawei; Song, Lingjie; Jin, Jing; Yin, Jinghua; Stagnaro, Paola

    2013-02-01

    Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an important component of extracellular matrix (ECM) in many tissues, providing a hemocompatible and supportive environment for cell growth. In this study, glycidyl methacrylate-hyaluronic acid (GMHA) was first synthesized and verified by proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H NMR) spectroscopy. GMHA was then grafted to the surface of biomedical elastomer poly (styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) (SEBS) via an UV-initiated polymerization, monitored by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The further improvement of biocompatibility of the GMHA-modified SEBS films was assessed by platelet adhesion experiments and in vitro response of murine osteoblastic cell line MC-3T3-E1 with the virgin SEBS surface as the reference. It showed that the surface modification with HA strongly resisted platelet adhesion whereas improved cell-substrate interactions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. 21 CFR 181.30 - Substances used in the manufacture of paper and paperboard products used in food packaging.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ..., DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) PRIOR-SANCTIONED..., based on available scientific information and data. 1-Alkyl (C6-C18)3-amino-3-aminopropane monoacetate.* Borax or boric acid for use in adhesives, sizes, and coatings.* Butadiene-styrene copolymer. Chromium...

  7. Synthesis and Properties of a Precision Sulfonated Trimethylene-Styrene Polyelectrolyte

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kennemur, Justin; Neary, William; Bohlmann, Michele; Kendrick, Aaron

    We recently reported successful ring-opening metathesis polymerization of 4-phenylcyclopentene to afford a precision ethylene-styrene type copolymer with a phenyl branch at exactly every fifth carbon along the backbone following mild hydrogenation of the backbone olefins. (http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/marc.201600121) Compared to polystyrene, this material shows a markedly reduced glass transition temperature (Tg 17 °C) and remains amorphous. We have now extended the function of this polymer via sulfonation of the phenyl branches to produce a precision polyelectrolyte with an ionic charge spacing at every fifth carbon along the chain. The reduced yet precise charge density coupled with the low Tg of the native material translates into a variety of properties that are unique to this system and potentially useful as an addition to the limited set of available polyelectrolyte materials. Synthetic aspects in addition to thermal and mechanical properties will be discussed. Graduate Student.

  8. Phase structure and properties of poly(ethylene terephthalate)/polyethylene based on recycled materials

    Treesearch

    Yong Lei; Qinglin Wu; Craig M. Clemons; Weihong Guo

    2009-01-01

    Blends based on recycled high density polyethylene (R-HDPE) and recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (R-PET) were made through reactive extrusion. The effects of maleated polyethylene (PE-g-MA), triblock copolymer of styrene and ethylene/butylene (SEBS), and 4,40-methylenedi(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI) on blend properties were studied. The 2% PE-g-MA improved the...

  9. Diffusion of copolymers composed of monomers with drastically different friction factors in copolymer/homopolymer blends

    DOE PAGES

    Duranty, Edward R.; Baschnagel, Jörg; Dadmun, Mark

    2017-02-07

    Copolymers are commonly used as interface modifiers that allow for the compatibilization of polymer components in a blend. For copolymers to function as a compatibilizer, they must diffuse through the matrix of the blend to the interface between the two blend components. The diffusivity of a copolymer in a blend matrix therefore becomes important in determining good candidates for use as compatibilizers. In this paper, coarse-grained Monte Carlo simulations using the bond fluctuation model modified with an overlap penalty have been developed to study the diffusive behavior of PS/PMMA random copolymers in a PMMA homopolymer blend. The simulations vary themore » connectivity between different monomers, the thermodynamic interactions between the monomers which manifest within a chain, and between copolymer and homopolymer matrix and define the monomer friction coefficient of each component independently, allowing for the determination of the combined effect of these parameters on copolymer chain diffusion. Finally, the results of this work indicate that PS-r-PMMA copolymer diffusion is not linearly dependent on the copolymer composition on a logarithmic scale, but its diffusion is a balance of the kinetics governed by the dominant motion of the faster styrene monomers and thermodynamics, which are governed by the concentration of styrene monomer within a given monomer’s local volume.« less

  10. Triblock copolymers based on ε-caprolactone and trimethylene carbonate for the 3D printing of tissue engineering scaffolds.

    PubMed

    Güney, Aysun; Malda, Jos; Dhert, Wouter J A; Grijpma, Dirk W

    2017-05-09

    Biodegradable PCL-b-PTMC-b-PCL triblock copolymers based on trimethylene carbonate (TMC) and ε-caprolactone (CL) were prepared and used in the 3D printing of tissue engineering scaffolds. Triblock copolymers of various molecular weights containing equal amounts of TMC and CL were prepared. These block copolymers combine the low glass transition temperature of amorphous PTMC (approximately -20°C) and the semi-crystallinity of PCL (glass transition approximately -60°C and melting temperature approximately 60°C). PCL-b-PTMC-b-PCL triblock copolymers were synthesized by sequential ring opening polymerization (ROP) of TMC and ε-CL. From these materials, films were prepared by solvent casting and porous structures were prepared by extrusion-based 3D printing. Films prepared from a polymer with a relatively high molecular weight of 62 kg/mol had a melting temperature of 58°C and showed tough and resilient behavior, with values of the elastic modulus, tensile strength and elongation at break of approximately 120 MPa, 16 MPa and 620%, respectively. Porous structures were prepared by 3D printing. Ethylene carbonate was used as a crystalizable and water-extractable solvent to prepare structures with microporous strands. Solutions, containing 25 wt% of the triblock copolymer, were extruded at 50°C then cooled at different temperatures. Slow cooling at room temperature resulted in pores with widths of 18 ± 6 μm and lengths of 221 ± 77 μm, rapid cooling with dry ice resulted in pores with widths of 13 ± 3 μm and lengths of 58 ± 12 μm. These PCL-b-PTMC-b-PCL triblock copolymers processed into porous structures at relatively low temperatures may find wide application as designed degradable tissue engineering scaffolds. In this preliminary study we prepared biodegradable triblock copolymers based on 1,3-trimethylene carbonate and ε-caprolactone and assessed their physical characteristics. Furthermore, we evaluated their potential as melt-processable thermoplastic

  11. Biosynthesis of (R)-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol from racemic styrene oxide by using bacterial and marine fish epoxide hydrolases.

    PubMed

    Kim, Hee Sook; Lee, Ok Kyung; Hwang, Seungha; Kim, Beum Jun; Lee, Eun Yeol

    2008-01-01

    Enantio-convergent hydrolysis of racemic styrene oxides was achieved to prepare enantiopure (R)-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol by using two recombinant epoxide hydrolases (EHs) of a bacterium, Caulobacter crescentus, and a marine fish, Mugil cephalus. The recombinant C. crescentus EH primarily attacked the benzylic carbon of (S)-styrene oxide, while the M. cephalus EH preferentially attacked the terminal carbon of (R)-styrene oxide, thus leading to the formation of (R)-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol as the main product. (R)-Phenyl-1,2-ethanediol was obtained with 90% enantiomeric excess and yield as high as 94% from 50 mM racemic styrene oxides in a one-pot process.

  12. (Electro)Mechanical Properties of Olefinic Block Copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Spontak, Richard

    2014-03-01

    Conventional styrenic triblock copolymers (SBCs) swollen with a midblock-selective oil have been previously shown to exhibit excellent electromechanical properties as dielectric elastomers. In this class of electroactive polymers, compliant electrodes applied as active areas to opposing surfaces of an elastomer attract each other, and thus compress the elastomer due to the onset of a Maxwell stress, upon application of an external electric field. This isochoric process is accompanied by an increase in lateral area, which yields the electroactuation strain (measuring beyond 300% in SBC systems). Performance parameters such as the Maxwell stress, transverse strain, dielectric breakdown, energy density and electromechanical efficiency are determined directly from the applied electric field and resulting electroactuation strain. In this study, the same principle used to evaluate SBC systems is extended to olefinic block copolymers (OBCs), which can be described as randomly-coupled multiblock copolymers that consist of crystallizable polyethylene hard segments and rubbery poly(ethylene-co-octene) soft segments. Considerations governing the development of a methodology to fabricate electroresponsive OBC systems are first discussed for several OBCs differing in composition and bulk properties. Evidence of electroactuation in selectively-solvated OBC systems is presented and performance metrics measured therefrom are quantitatively compared with dielectric elastomers derived from SBC and related materials.

  13. Synthesis of a highly dispersed CuO catalyst on CoAl-HT for the epoxidation of styrene.

    PubMed

    Hu, Rui; Yang, Pengfei; Pan, Yongning; Li, Yunpeng; He, Yufei; Feng, Junting; Li, Dianqing

    2017-10-10

    A highly dispersed CuO catalyst was prepared by the deposition-precipitation method and evaluated for the catalytic epoxidation of styrene with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant under solvent acetonitrile conditions. Compared with MgAl hydrotalcite (MgAl-HT)-, MgO-, TiO 2 -, C-, and MCM-22-supported catalysts, CuO/CoAl-HT exhibited preferable activity and selectivity towards styrene oxide (72% selectivity at 99.5% styrene conversion) due to its high dispersion of CuO and surface area of Cu. The improved dispersion of CuO/CoAl-HT could be ascribed to the nature of HT support, especially the synergistic effect of acidic and basic sites on the surface, which facilitated the formation of highly dispersed CuO species. A structure-performance relationship study indicated that copper(ii) in CuO was the active site for the epoxidation and oxidation of styrene, and that Cu II of rich electronic density favored the improvement of selectivity of styrene oxide. Based on these results, a reaction mechanism was proposed. Moreover, the preferred catalytic performance of CuO/CoAl-HT could be maintained in five reused cycles.

  14. Aqueous-Based Fabrication of Low-VOC Nanostructured Block Copolymer Films as Potential Marine Antifouling Coatings.

    PubMed

    Kim, Kris S; Gunari, Nikhil; MacNeil, Drew; Finlay, John; Callow, Maureen; Callow, James; Walker, Gilbert C

    2016-08-10

    The ability to fabricate nanostructured films by exploiting the phenomenon of microphase separation has made block copolymers an invaluable tool for a wide array of coating applications. Standard approaches to engineering nanodomains commonly involve the application of organic solvents, either through dissolution or annealing protocols, resulting in the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this paper, an aqueous-based method of fabricating low-VOC nanostructured block copolymer films is presented. The reported procedure allows for the phase transfer of water insoluble triblock copolymer, poly(styrene-block-2 vinylpyridine-block-ethylene oxide) (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO), from a water immiscible phase to an aqueous environment with the assistance of a diblock copolymeric phase transfer agent, poly(styrene-block-ethylene oxide) (PS-b-PEO). Phase transfer into the aqueous phase results in self-assembly of PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO into core-shell-corona micelles, which are characterized by dynamic light scattering techniques. The films that result from coating the micellar solution onto Si/SiO2 surfaces exhibit nanoscale features that disrupt the ability of a model foulant, a zoospore of Ulva linza, to settle. The multilayered architecture consists of a pH-responsive P2VP-"shell" which can be stimulated to control the size of these features. The ability of these nanostructured thin films to resist protein adsorption and serve as potential marine antifouling coatings is supported through atomic force microscopy (AFM) and analysis of the settlement of Ulva linza zoospore. Field trials of the surfaces in a natural environment show the inhibition of macrofoulants for 1 month.

  15. Block copolymer battery separator

    DOEpatents

    Wong, David; Balsara, Nitash Pervez

    2016-04-26

    The invention herein described is the use of a block copolymer/homopolymer blend for creating nanoporous materials for transport applications. Specifically, this is demonstrated by using the block copolymer poly(styrene-block-ethylene-block-styrene) (SES) and blending it with homopolymer polystyrene (PS). After blending the polymers, a film is cast, and the film is submerged in tetrahydrofuran, which removes the PS. This creates a nanoporous polymer film, whereby the holes are lined with PS. Control of morphology of the system is achieved by manipulating the amount of PS added and the relative size of the PS added. The porous nature of these films was demonstrated by measuring the ionic conductivity in a traditional battery electrolyte, 1M LiPF.sub.6 in EC/DEC (1:1 v/v) using AC impedance spectroscopy and comparing these results to commercially available battery separators.

  16. Cancer incidence among boat-building workers exposed to styrene.

    PubMed

    Ruder, Avima M; Bertke, Stephen J

    2017-07-01

    A cancer incidence analysis was conducted on The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health boat-builders cohort exposed to styrene, a possible carcinogen. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and standardized rate ratios (SRR) were calculated using national and Washington State rates and a person-years analysis program. Among 3704 workers living in Washington State after 1991, when cancer registry case accrual began, 516 first primary diagnoses occurred through 2007. While overall cancer incidence was significantly reduced [SIR: 0.83 (0.76, 0.90)], internal comparisons suggest an association with exposure comparing high to low exposed person-time [SRR: 1.28 (1.05, 1.55)]. There is evidence of styrene exposure being linked to cancer incidence, which is notable since the cohort has not yet reached the median age of cancer diagnosis (65) in the United States. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  17. Calcium oxide supported gold nanoparticles as catalysts for the selective epoxidation of styrene by t-butyl hydroperoxide.

    PubMed

    Dumbre, Deepa K; Choudhary, Vasant R; Patil, Nilesh S; Uphade, Balu S; Bhargava, Suresh K

    2014-02-01

    Gold nanoparticles are deposited on basic CaO supports as catalysts for the selective conversion of styrene into styrene oxide. Synthetic methods, gold loading and calcination temperatures are varied to permit an understanding of their influence on gold nanoparticle size, the presence of cationic gold species and the nature of interaction between the gold nanoparticles and the CaO support. Based on these studies, optimal conditions are designed to make the Au/CaO catalyst efficient for the selective epoxidation of styrene. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Probing molecular interactions of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) with lipid matrix models to interpret the therapeutic potential of the co-polymer.

    PubMed

    Banerjee, Shubhadeep; Pal, Tapan K; Guha, Sujoy K

    2012-03-01

    To understand and maximize the therapeutic potential of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (SMA), a synthetic, pharmacologically-active co-polymer, its effect on conformation, phase behavior and stability of lipid matrix models of cell membranes were investigated. The modes of interaction between SMA and lipid molecules were also studied. While, attenuated total reflection-Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and static (31)P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments detected SMA-induced conformational changes in the headgroup region, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies revealed thermotropic phase behavior changes of the membranes. (1)H NMR results indicated weak immobilization of SMA within the bilayers. Molecular interpretation of the results indicated the role of hydrogen-bond formation and hydrophobic forces between SMA and zwitterionic phospholipid bilayers. The extent of membrane fluidization and generation of isotropic phases were affected by the surface charge of the liposomes, and hence suggested the role of electrostatic interactions between SMA and charged lipid headgroups. SMA was thus found to directly affect the structural integrity of model membranes. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. Block copolymer lithography of rhodium nanoparticles for high temperature electrocatalysis.

    PubMed

    Boyd, David A; Hao, Yong; Li, Changyi; Goodwin, David G; Haile, Sossina M

    2013-06-25

    We present a method for forming ordered rhodium nanostructures on a solid support. The approach makes use of a block copolymer to create and assemble rhodium chloride nanoparticles from solution onto a surface; subsequent plasma and thermal processing are employed to remove the polymer and fully convert the nanostructures to metallic rhodium. Films cast from a solution of the triblock copolymer poly(styrene-b-2-vinyl pyridine-b-ethylene oxide) dissolved in toluene with rhodium(III) chloride hydrate were capable of producing a monolayer of rhodium nanoparticles of uniform size and interparticle spacing. The nanostructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The electrocatalytic performance of the nanoparticles was investigated with AC impedance spectroscopy. We observed that the addition of the particles to a model solid oxide fuel cell anode provided up to a 14-fold improvement in the anode activity as evidenced by a decrease in the AC impedance resistance. Examination of the anode after electrochemical measurement revealed that the basic morphology and distribution of the particles were preserved.

  20. EVALUATION OF POLLUTION PREVENTION TECHNIQUES TO REDUCE STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM OPEN CONTACT MOLDING PROCESSES - VOLUME 2. APPENDICES

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of a study to evaluate several pollution prevention techniques that could be used to reduce styrene emissions from open molding processes in the fiberglass-reinforced plastics/composites (FRP/C) and fiberglass boat building industries. Styrene emissions u...

  1. Styrene-terminated polysulfone oligomers as matrix material for graphite reinforced composites: An initial study

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Garcia, Dana; Bowles, Kenneth J.; Vannucci, Raymond D.

    1987-01-01

    Styrene terminated polysulfone oligomers are part of an oligomeric class of compounds with end groups capable of thermal polymerization. These materials can be used as matrices for graphite reinforced composites. The initial evaluation of styrene terminated polysulfone oligomer based composites are summarized in terms of fabrication methods, and mechanical and environmental properties. In addition, a description and evaluation is provided of the NASA/Industry Fellowship Program for Technology Transfer.

  2. Thermo-Responsive Amphiphilic Block Copolymers Stablilized Gold Nanoparticles: Synthesis and High Catalytic Properties.

    PubMed

    Lü, Jianhua; Yang, Yu; Gao, Junfang; Duan, Haichao; Lü, Changli

    2018-06-19

    A series of novel well-defined 8-hydroxyquinoline (HQ)-containing thermo-responsive amphiphilic diblock copolymers poly(styrene-co-5-(2-methacryloylethyloxy- methyl)-8-quinolinol)-b-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) P(St-co-MQ)-b-PNIPAm (P1,2), P(NIPAm- co-MQ)-b-PSt (P3,4) and triblock copolymer poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-b-poly(methyl- methacrylate-co-5-(2-methacryloylethyloxymethyl)-8-quinolinol)-b-polystyrene PNIPAm-b- P(MMA-co-MQ)-b-PSt (P5) were prepared by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, and their self-assembly behaviors were studied. The block copolymers P1-P5 stabilized gold nanoparticles (Au@P1-Au@P5) with small size and narrow distribution were obtained through in situ reduction of gold precursors in aqueous solution of polymer micelles with HQ as the coordination groups. The resulting Au@P nanohybrids possessed excellent catalytic activities for the reduction of nitrophenols using NaBH4. The size, morphology and surface chemistry of Au NPs could be controlled by adjusting the structure of block polymers with HQ in different block positions, which plays an important role in the catalytic properties. It was found that longer chain length of hydrophilic or hydrophobic segments of block copolymers were beneficial to elevate the catalytic activity of Au NPs for the reduction of nitrophenols, and the spherical nanoparticles (Au@P5) stabilized with triblock copolymer exhibit higher catalytic performance. Surprisingly, the gold nanowires (Au@P4) produced with P4 have a highest catalytic activity due to large abundance of grain boundaries. Excellent thermo-responsive behaviors for catalytic reaction make the as-prepared Au@P hybrids become an environmentally responsive nano-catalytic materials.

  3. [Identification of migrants from nitrile-butadiene rubber gloves].

    PubMed

    Mutsuga, Motoh; Kawamura, Yoko; Wakui, Chiseko; Maitani, Tamio

    2003-04-01

    Polyvinyl chloride gloves containing di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate are restricted for food contact use. In their place, disposable gloves made from nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) are used in contact with foodstuffs. Some unknown substances were found to migrate into n-heptane from NBR gloves. By GC/MS, HR-MS and NMR, their chemical structures were confirmed to be 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate (used as a plasticizer), 4,4'-butylidenedi(6-tert-butyl-m-cresol), a mixture of styrenated phenols consisting of 2-(alpha-methylbenzyl)phenol, 4-(alpha-methylbenzyl)phenol, 2,6-di(alpha-methylbenzyl)phenol, 2,4-di(alpha-methylbenzyl)phenol and 2,4,6-tri(alpha-methylbenzyl)phenol (used as antioxidants), and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, which seems to a degradation product of antioxidant. Migration levels of these compounds were 1.68 micrograms/cm2 of 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, 2.80 micrograms/cm2 of 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate, 46.08 micrograms/cm2 of styrenated phenols and 4.22 micrograms/cm2 of 4,4'-butylidenedi(6-tert-butyl-m-cresol) into n-heptane, respectively. The content of total styrenated phenols was 6,900 micrograms/g in NBR gloves.

  4. Preparation and Characterization of Facilitated Transport Membranes Composed of Chitosan-Styrene and Chitosan-Acrylonitrile Copolymers Modified by Methylimidazolium Based Ionic Liquids for CO2 Separation from CH4 and N2

    PubMed Central

    Otvagina, Ksenia V.; Mochalova, Alla E.; Sazanova, Tatyana S.; Petukhov, Anton N.; Moskvichev, Alexandr A.; Vorotyntsev, Andrey V.; Afonso, Carlos A. M.; Vorotyntsev, Ilya V.

    2016-01-01

    CO2 separation was found to be facilitated by transport membranes based on novel chitosan (CS)–poly(styrene) (PS) and chitosan (CS)–poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) copolymer matrices doped with methylimidazolium based ionic liquids: [bmim][BF4], [bmim][PF6], and [bmim][Tf2N] (IL). CS plays the role of biodegradable film former and selectivity promoter. Copolymers were prepared implementing the latest achievements in radical copolymerization with chosen monomers, which enabled the achievement of outstanding mechanical strength values for the CS-based membranes (75–104 MPa for CS-PAN and 69–75 MPa for CS-PS). Ionic liquid (IL) doping affected the surface and mechanical properties of the membranes as well as the gas separation properties. The highest CO2 permeability 400 Barrers belongs to CS-b-PS/[bmim][BF4]. The highest selectivity α (CO2/N2) = 15.5 was achieved for CS-b-PAN/[bmim][BF4]. The operational temperature of the membranes is under 220 °C. PMID:27294964

  5. Synthesis and characterization of Cr-MSU-1 and its catalytic application for oxidation of styrene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Hong; Wang, Zhigang; Hu, Hongjiu; Liang, Yuguang; Wang, Mengyang

    2009-07-01

    Chromium-containing mesoporous silica material Cr-MSU-1 was synthesized using lauryl alcohol-polyoxyethylene (23) ether as templating agent under the neutral pH condition by two-step method. The sample was characterized by XRD, TEM, FT-IR, UV-Vis, ESR, ICP-AES and N 2 adsorption. Its catalytic performance for oxidation of styrene was studied. Effects of the solvent used, the styrene/H 2O 2 mole ratio and the reaction temperature and time on the oxidation of styrene over the Cr-MSU-1 catalyst were examined. The results indicate that Cr ions have been successfully incorporated into the framework of MSU-1 and the Cr-MSU-1 material has a uniform worm-like holes mesoporous structure. After Cr-MSU-1 is calcined, most of Cr 3+ is oxidized to Cr 5+ and Cr 6+ in tetrahedral coordination and no extra-framework Cr 2O 3 is formed. The Cr-MSU-1 catalyst is highly active for the selective oxidation of styrene and the main reaction products over Cr-MSU-1 are benzaldehyde and phenylacetaldehyde. Its catalytic performance remains stable within five repeated runs and no leaching is noticed for this chromium-based catalyst.

  6. Responses of conventional and molecular biomarkers in turbot Scophthalmus maximus exposed to heavy fuel oil no. 6 and styrene.

    PubMed

    Ruiz, Pamela; Ortiz-Zarragoitia, Maren; Orbea, Amaia; Theron, Michael; Le Floch, Stéphane; Cajaraville, Miren P

    2012-07-15

    Several accidental spills in European coastal areas have resulted in the release of different toxic compounds into the marine environment, such as heavy fuel oil type no. 6 in the "Erika" and "Prestige" oil spills and the highly toxic styrene after the loss of the "Ievoli Sun". There is a clear need to develop tools that might allow assessing the biological impact of these accidental spills on aquatic organisms. The aim of the present study was to determine the short-term effects and recovery after exposure of juvenile fish (Scophthalmus maximus) to heavy fuel oil no. 6 and styrene by using a battery of molecular, cell and tissue level biomarkers. Turbots were exposed to styrene for 7 days and to the diluted soluble fraction of the oil (10%) for 14 days, and then allowed to recover in clean seawater for the same time periods. cyp1a1 transcript was overexpressed in turbots after 3 and 14 days of exposure to heavy fuel oil, whereas ahr transcription was not modulated after heavy fuel oil and styrene exposure. pparα transcription level was significantly up-regulated after 3 days of treatment with styrene. Liver activity of peroxisomal acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX) was significantly induced after 14 days of oil exposure, but it was not affected by styrene. Hepatocyte lysosomal membrane stability (LMS) was significantly reduced after exposure to both treatments, indicating that the tested compounds significantly impaired fish health. Both AOX and LMS values returned to control levels after the recovery period. No differences in gamete development were observed between fuel- or styrene- exposed fish and control fish, and vitellogenin plasma levels were low, suggesting no xenoestrogenic effects of fuel oil or styrene. While styrene did not cause any increase in the prevalence of liver histopathological alterations, prevalence of extensive cell vacuolization increased after exposure to heavy fuel oil for 14 days. In conclusion, the suite of selected biomarkers proved to be

  7. Fungal biodegradation of lignopolystyrene graft copolymers. [Pleurotus ostreatus; Phanerochaete chrysosporium; Trametes versicolor; Gloeophyllum trabeum

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Milstein, O.; Gersonde, R.; Huttermann, A.

    1992-10-01

    White rot basidiomycetes were able to biodegrade styrene (1-phenylethene) graft copolymers of lignin containing different proportions of lignin and polystyrene (poly(1-phenylethylene)). The biodegradation tests were run on lignin-styrene copolymerization products which contained 10.3, 32.2, and 50.4{percent} (wt/wt) lignin. The polymer samples were incubated with the white rot fungi Pleurotus ostreatus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, and Trametes versicolor and the brown rot fungus Gloeophyllum trabeum. White rot fungi degraded the plastic samples at a rate which increased with increasing lignin content in the copolymer sample. Both polystyrene and lignin components of the copolymer were readily degraded. Polystyrene pellets were not degradable in thesemore » tests. Degradation was verified for both incubated and control samples by weight loss, quantitative UV spectrophotometric analysis of both lignin and styrene residues, scanning electron microscopy of the plastic surface, and the presence of enzymes active in degradation during incubation. Brown rot fungus did not affect any of the plastics. White rot fungi produced and secreted oxidative enzymes associated with lignin degradation in liquid media during incubation with lignin-polystyrene copolymer.« less

  8. Roles of oxyanions in promoting the partial oxidation of styrene on Ag(110): nitrate, carbonate, sulfite, and sulfate.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Ling; Madix, Robert J

    2010-11-02

    The promotion roles of nitrate, carbonate, sulfite, and sulfate in oxidation of styrene on Ag(110) have been studied by means of temperature-programmed reaction spectroscopy (TPRS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). While isolated nitrate leads only to the secondary oxidation of styrene, a surface co-covered by nitrate, oxygen, and 0.1 ML cesium promotes a low-temperature epoxidation pathway. XPS indicates that adsorbed surface oxygen is the oxidant in this selective reaction pathway, and, though it affects the reactivity of the surface oxygen, nitrate is a spectator. Carbonate acts as an oxygen transfer agent and exhibits similar reactivity and selectivity as an oxidant for styrene as does atomic oxygen on Ag(110). The reactivities of sulfite and sulfate are strongly dependent on their surface structures, the c(6 × 2) sulfite showing the capacity to transfer oxygen to styrene.

  9. Carbon nanotubes and carbon onions for modification of styrene-acrylate copolymer based nanocomposites

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Merijs-Meri, Remo; Zicans, Janis; Ivanova, Tatjana

    2014-05-15

    Styrene acrylate polymer (SAC) nanocomposites with various carbon nanofillers (multiwalled carbon nanotubes MWCNTs and onion like carbon OLC) are manufactured by means of latex based routes. Concentration of the carbon nanofillers is changed in a broad interval starting from 0.01 up to 10 wt. %. Elastic, dielectric and electromagnetic properties of SAC nanocomposites are investigated. Elastic modulus, electrical conductivity and electromagnetic radiation absorption of the investigated SAC nanocomposites increase along with rising nanofiller content. The effect of the addition of anisometric MWCNTs on the elastic properties of the composite is higher than in the case of the addition of OLC.more » Higher electrical conductivity of the OLC containing nanocomposites is explained with the fact that reasonable agglomeration of the nanofiller can promote the development of electrically conductive network. Efficiency of the absorption of electromagnetic radiation depends on the development of conductive network within the SAC matrix.« less

  10. EVALUATION OF POLLUTION PREVENTION TECHNIQUES TO REDUCE STYRENE EMISIONS FROM OPEN CONTACT MOLDING PROCESSES - VOLUME 1. FINAL REPORT

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of a study to evaluate several pollution prevention techniques that could be used to reduce styrene emissions from open molding processes in the fiberglass-reinforced
    plastics/composites (FRP/C) and fiberglass boat building industries. Styrene emission...

  11. Monolithic column modified with bifunctional ionic liquid and styrene stationary phases for capillary electrochromatography.

    PubMed

    Mao, Zhenkun; Chen, Zilin

    2017-01-13

    A novel monolithic column with ionic liquid and styrene-modified bifunctional group was prepared for capillary electrochromatography (CEC) by in situ copolymerization in a ternary porogenic solvent. Ionic liquid (1-allyl-methylimidazolium chloride, AlMeIm + Cl - ) and styrene served as the bifunctional monomer, while ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA) was used as the cross-linker. The monomer of AlMeIm + Cl - was introduced as anion-exchange group, while styrene as hydrophobic and aromatic group; the similar conjugated structure in AlMeIm + Cl - and styrene was beneficial for offeing obvious synergistic effect. The bifunctional stationary phase possessed powerful selectivity for the separation of neutral compounds, acidic analytes and phenols. The highest column efficiency was 2.70×10 5 platesm -1 (theoretical plates, N) for toluene. A relatively strong electroosmotic flow (EOF) was obtained in a wide range of pH values from 2.0 to 12.0, which could successfully achieve the rapid separation of the analytes within 10min. The proposed monolithic column was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). The results indicated that the resultant monolithic column had good permeability and excellent mechanical stability. Good reproducibility was obtained with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of the retention time in the range of 0.24-0.47% and 0.81-2.17% for run-to-run (n=5) and day-to-day (n=5), while 1.09-2.70% and 0.98-1.70% for column-to-column (n=3) and batch-to-batch (n=3), respectively. The combination of AlMeIm + Cl - and styrene was a promising option in the fabrication of the organic polymer monolithic column. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. IMPACT OF AN OZONE GENERATOR AIR CLEANER ON STYRENE CONCENTRATIONS IN AN INDOOR AIR QUALITY RESEARCH CHAMBER

    EPA Science Inventory

    The paper gives results of an investigation of the impact of an ozone generator air cleaner on vapor-phase styrene concentrations in a full-scale indoor air quality test chamber. The time history of the concentrations of styrene and ozone is well predicted by a simulation model u...

  13. Roles of Ring-Hydroxylating Dioxygenases in Styrene and Benzene Catabolism in Rhodococcus jostii RHA1▿ †

    PubMed Central

    Patrauchan, Marianna A.; Florizone, Christine; Eapen, Shawn; Gómez-Gil, Leticia; Sethuraman, Bhanu; Fukuda, Masao; Davies, Julian; Mohn, William W.; Eltis, Lindsay D.

    2008-01-01

    Proteomics and targeted gene disruption were used to investigate the catabolism of benzene, styrene, biphenyl, and ethylbenzene in Rhodococcus jostii RHA1, a well-studied soil bacterium whose potent polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-transforming properties are partly due to the presence of the related Bph and Etb pathways. Of 151 identified proteins, 22 Bph/Etb proteins were among the most abundant in biphenyl-, ethylbenzene-, benzene-, and styrene-grown cells. Cells grown on biphenyl, ethylbenzene, or benzene contained both Bph and Etb enzymes and at least two sets of lower Bph pathway enzymes. By contrast, styrene-grown cells contained no Etb enzymes and only one set of lower Bph pathway enzymes. Gene disruption established that biphenyl dioxygenase (BPDO) was essential for growth of RHA1 on benzene or styrene but that ethylbenzene dioxygenase (EBDO) was not required for growth on any of the tested substrates. Moreover, whole-cell assays of the ΔbphAa and etbAa1::cmrA etbAa2::aphII mutants demonstrated that while both dioxygenases preferentially transformed biphenyl, only BPDO transformed styrene. Deletion of pcaL of the β-ketoadipate pathway disrupted growth on benzene but not other substrates. Thus, styrene and benzene are degraded via meta- and ortho-cleavage, respectively. Finally, catalases were more abundant during growth on nonpolar aromatic compounds than on aromatic acids. This suggests that the relaxed specificities of BPDO and EBDO that enable RHA1 to grow on a range of compounds come at the cost of increased uncoupling during the latter's initial transformation. The stress response may augment RHA1's ability to degrade PCBs and other pollutants that induce similar uncoupling. PMID:17965160

  14. Syntheses and Post-Polymerization Modifications of Well-Defined Styrenic Polymers Containing Three-Membered Heterocyclic Functionalities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McLeod, David Charles

    Macromolecules that contain electrophilic moieties, such as benzyl halides, activated esters, and epoxides, will readily undergo efficient nucleophilic substitution reactions with a wide variety of compounds under mild conditions, and are therefore ideally suited to act as "universal" precursors to functional materials. Epoxide-containing polymers derived from the radical polymerization of commercially-available glycidyl methacrylate are often employed in this role; however, methacrylic polymers suffer from certain limitations as a result of the incorporated ester groups, which are not stabile in the presence of strong nucleophiles, acids, bases, or esterase enzymes. Styrenic polymers that do not contain labile carbonyl moieties are usually the precursors of choice when high chemical stability is desired in the end product, but the production of functional materials from epoxide-containing styrenic polymers is relatively unexplored. In this dissertation, improved methods were developed for synthesizing 4-vinylphenyloxirane (4VPO) and 4-vinylphenyl glycidyl ether (4VPGE), two of the better-known epoxide-containing styrenic monomers, in high-yield and purity. Well-defined, epoxide-containing styrenic polymers with targeted molecular weights, narrow molecular weight distributions, and controlled architectures (specifically, linear and star-shaped homopolymers, as well as linear block copolymers with styrene) were produced from 4VPO and 4VPGE for the first time using reversible-deactivation radical polymerization techniques, such as low-catalyst-concentration atom transfer radical polymerization (LCC ATRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The robust nature and utility of poly4VPO and poly4VPGE were then demonstrated by the efficient, ring-opening modification of the pendant epoxide groups with a structurally- and functionally-diverse array of alcohols under acidic conditions at ambient temperature. The macromolecular

  15. Preparation and dielectric properties of novel composites based on oxidized styrene-butadienestyrene copolymer and polyaniline modified exfoliated graphite nanoplates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lv, Qun-Chen; Li, Ying; Zhong, Zhi-Kui; Wu, Hui-Jun; He, Fu-An; Lam, Kwok-Ho

    2018-05-01

    To improve the dielectric performance of high-dielectric-constant conductive filler/polymer composites, polyaniline was deposited on exfoliated graphite nanoplates (xGNPs) by in-situ polymerization method to form polyaniline (PANI) coated xGNPs (xGNPs@PANI) as the conductive filler for the oxidized styrene-butadienestyrene copolymer (SBS-FH) containing both hydroxyl and formyloxy groups. The results of TEM, SEM, FTIR, TGA, Raman spectrum, XPS, and WAXD showed that PANI had been coated onto the surface of xGNPs successfully. The xGNPs@PANI/SBS-FH composites were prepared by a simple solution-blending method and the homogenous distribution of xGNPs@PANI in the SBS-FH matrix was confirmed by SEM. The presence of xGNPs@PANI was found to significantly improve the dielectric properties of resultant composite compared to the unmodified xGNPs. For example, the xGNPs@PANI/SBS-FH composite near percolation threshold filled with 9.38 vol.% xGNPs@PANI showed a dielectric constant of 56.8 and a dielectric loss factor of 0.51 at 1000 Hz, while the corresponding values of xGNPs (1.19 vol.%)/SBS composite were 15.96 and 2.91 at 1000 Hz, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of xGNPs@PANI into SBS-FH could effectively enhance the thermal conductivity of resultant xGNPs@PANI/SBS-FH composite.

  16. Effect of Mesoporous Diatomite Particles on the Kinetics of SR&NI ATRP of Styrene and Butyl Acrylate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khezri, Khezrollah; Ghasemi, Moosa; Fazli, Yousef

    2018-05-01

    Mesoporous diatomite particles were employed to prepare different poly(styrene-co-butyl acrylate)/diatomite nanocomposites. Diatomite nanoplatelets were used for in situ copolymerization of styrene and butyl acrylate by SR&NI ATRP to synthesize well-defined poly(styrene-co-butyl acrylate) nanocomposites. Nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherm is applied to examine surface area and structural characteristics of the diatomite nanoplatelets. Evaluation of pore size distribution and morphological studies were also performed by SEM and TEM. Conversion and molecular weight determinations were carried out using gas and size exclusion chromatography respectively. Addition of 3 wt% pristine mesoporous diatomite nanoplatelets leads to increase of conversion from 73 to 89%. Molecular weight of poly(styrene-co-butyl acrylate) chains increases from 17,115 to 20,343 g·mol-1 by addition of 3 wt% pristine mesoporous diatomite; however, polydispersity index values increases from 1.14 to 1.37. Increasing thermal stability of the nanocomposites is demonstrated by TGA. Differential scanning calorimetry shows an increase in glass transition temperature from 35.26 to 39.61°C by adding 3 wt% of mesoporous diatomite nanoplatelets.

  17. 21 CFR 573.870 - Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF ANIMALS Food Additive Listing § 573.870 Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene). The food additive poly(2... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the following: (1) The name of the additive. (2) A statement...

  18. 21 CFR 573.870 - Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF ANIMALS Food Additive Listing § 573.870 Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene). The food additive poly(2... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the following: (1) The name of the additive. (2) A statement...

  19. 21 CFR 573.870 - Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF ANIMALS Food Additive Listing § 573.870 Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene). The food additive poly(2... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the following: (1) The name of the additive. (2) A statement...

  20. 21 CFR 573.870 - Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF ANIMALS Food Additive Listing § 573.870 Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene). The food additive poly(2... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the following: (1) The name of the additive. (2) A statement...

  1. 21 CFR 573.870 - Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS, FEEDS, AND RELATED PRODUCTS FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FEED AND DRINKING WATER OF ANIMALS Food Additive Listing § 573.870 Poly(2-vinylpyridine-co-styrene). The food additive poly(2... the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the following: (1) The name of the additive. (2) A statement...

  2. Pyrolysis of polystyrene - polyphenylene oxide to recover styrene and useful products

    DOEpatents

    Evans, Robert J.; Chum, Helena L.

    1995-01-01

    A process of using fast pyrolysis in a carrier gas to convert a polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide plastic waste to a given polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide prior to pyrolysis of other plastic components therein comprising: selecting a first temperature range to cause pyrolysis of given polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide and its high value monomeric constituent prior to a temperature range that causes pyrolysis of other plastic components; selecting a catalyst and a support and treating the feed stream with the catalyst to affect acid or base catalyzed reaction pathways to maximize yield or enhance separation of high value monomeric constituent of styrene from polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide in the first temperature range; differentially heating the feed stream at a heat rate within the first temperature range to provide differential pyrolysis for selective recovery of the high value monomeric constituent of styrene from polystyrene and polyphenylene oxide prior to pyrolysis of other plastic components; separating the high value monomer constituent of styrene; selecting a second higher temperature range to cause pyrolysis to a different derived high value product of polyphenylene oxide from the plastic waste and differentially heating the feed stream at the higher temperature range to cause pyrolysis of the plastic into a polyphenylene oxide derived product; and separating the different derived high value polyphenylene oxide product.

  3. Fast assembly of ordered block copolymer nanostructures through microwave annealing.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xiaojiang; Harris, Kenneth D; Wu, Nathanael L Y; Murphy, Jeffrey N; Buriak, Jillian M

    2010-11-23

    Block copolymer self-assembly is an innovative technology capable of patterning technologically relevant substrates with nanoscale precision for a range of applications from integrated circuit fabrication to tissue interfacing, for example. In this article, we demonstrate a microwave-based method of rapidly inducing order in block copolymer structures. The technique involves the usage of a commercial microwave reactor to anneal block copolymer films in the presence of appropriate solvents, and we explore the effect of various parameters over the polymer assembly speed and defect density. The approach is applied to the commonly used poly(styrene)-b-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PS-b-PMMA) and poly(styrene)-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) families of block copolymers, and it is found that the substrate resistivity, solvent environment, and anneal temperature all critically influence the self-assembly process. For selected systems, highly ordered patterns were achieved in less than 3 min. In addition, we establish the compatibility of the technique with directed assembly by graphoepitaxy.

  4. Biodegradation of airborne acetone/styrene mixtures in a bubble column reactor.

    PubMed

    Vanek, T; Silva, A; Halecky, M; Paca, J; Ruzickova, I; Kozliak, E; Jones, K

    2017-07-29

    The ability of a bubble column reactor (BCR) to biodegrade a mixture of styrene and acetone vapors was evaluated to determine the factors limiting the process efficiency, with a particular emphasis on the presence of degradation intermediates and oxygen levels. The results obtained under varied loadings and ratios were matched with the dissolved oxygen levels and kinetics of oxygen mass transfer, which was assessed by determination of k L a coefficients. A 1.5-L laboratory-scale BCR was operated under a constant air flow of 1.0 L.min -1 , using a defined mixed microbial population as a biocatalyst. Maximum values of elimination capacities/maximum overall specific degradation rates of 75.5 gC.m -3 .h -1 /0.197 gC.gdw -1 .h -1 , 66.0 gC.m -3 .h -1 /0.059 gC.gdw -1 .h -1 , and 45.8 gC.m -3 .h -1 /0.027 gC.gdw -1 .h -1 were observed for styrene/acetone 2:1, styrene-rich and acetone-rich mixtures, respectively, indicating significant substrate interactions and rate limitation by biological factors. The BCR removed both acetone and styrene near-quantitatively up to a relatively high organic load of 50 g.m -3 .h -1 . From this point, the removal efficiencies declined under increasing loading rates, accompanied by a significant drop in the dissolved oxygen concentration, showing a process transition to oxygen-limited conditions. However, the relatively efficient pollutant removal from air continued, due to significant oxygen mass transfer, up to a threshold loading rate when the accumulation of acetone and degradation intermediates in the aqueous medium became significant. These observations demonstrate that oxygen availability is the limiting factor for efficient pollutant degradation and that accumulation of intermediates may serve as an indicator of oxygen limitation. Microbial (activated sludge) analyses revealed the presence of amoebae and active nematodes that were not affected by variations in operational conditions.

  5. Modulation of DNA repair capacity and mRNA expression levels of XRCC1, hOGG1 and XPC genes in styrene-exposed workers.

    PubMed

    Hanova, Monika; Stetina, Rudolf; Vodickova, Ludmila; Vaclavikova, Radka; Hlavac, Pavel; Smerhovsky, Zdenek; Naccarati, Alessio; Polakova, Veronika; Soucek, Pavel; Kuricova, Miroslava; Manini, Paola; Kumar, Rajiv; Hemminki, Kari; Vodicka, Pavel

    2010-11-01

    Decreased levels of single-strand breaks in DNA (SSBs), reflecting DNA damage, have previously been observed with increased styrene exposure in contrast to a dose-dependent increase in the base-excision repair capacity. To clarify further the above aspects, we have investigated the associations between SSBs, micronuclei, DNA repair capacity and mRNA expression in XRCC1, hOGG1 and XPC genes on 71 styrene-exposed and 51 control individuals. Styrene concentrations at workplace and in blood characterized occupational exposure. The workers were divided into low (below 50 mg/m³) and high (above 50 mg/m³)) styrene exposure groups. DNA damage and DNA repair capacity were analyzed in peripheral blood lymphocytes by Comet assay. The mRNA expression levels were determined by qPCR. A significant negative correlation was observed between SSBs and styrene concentration at workplace (R=-0.38, p=0.001); SSBs were also significantly higher in men (p=0.001). The capacity to repair irradiation-induced DNA damage was the highest in the low exposure group (1.34±1.00 SSB/10⁹ Da), followed by high exposure group (0.72±0.81 SSB/10⁹ Da) and controls (0.65±0.82 SSB/10⁹ Da). The mRNA expression levels of XRCC1, hOGG1 and XPC negatively correlated with styrene concentrations in blood and at workplace (p<0.001) and positively with SSBs (p<0.001). Micronuclei were not affected by styrene exposure, but were higher in older persons and in women (p<0.001). In this study, we did not confirm previous findings on an increased DNA repair response to styrene-induced genotoxicity. However, negative correlations of SSBs and mRNA expression levels of XRCC1, hOGG1 and XPC with styrene exposure warrant further highly-targeted study. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF 1,3-BUTADIENE | Science ...

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This assessment was conducted to review the new information that has become available since EPA's 1985 health assessment of 1,3-butadiene.1,3-Butadiene is a gas used commercially in the production of styrene-butadiene rubber, plastics, and thermoplastic resins. The major environmental source of 1,3-butadiene is the incomplete combustion of fuels from mobile sources (e.g., automobile exhaust). Tobacco smoke can be a significant source of 1,3-butadiene in indoor air.This assessment concludes that 1,3-butadiene is carcinogenic to humans by inhalation, based on the total weight of evidence. The specific mechanisms of 1,3-butadiene-induced carcinogenesis are unknown; however, it is virtually certain that the carcinogenic effects are mediated by genotoxic metabolites of 1,3-butadiene.Animal data suggest that females may be more sensitive than males for cancer effects; nevertheless, there are insufficient data from which to draw any conclusions on potentially sensitive subpopulations.The human incremental lifetime unit cancer (incidence) risk estimate is based on extrapolation from leukemias observed in an occupational epidemiologic study. A twofold adjustment to the epidemiologic-based unit cancer risk is then applied to reflect evidence from the rodent bioassays suggesting that the epidemiologic-based estimate may underestimate total cancer risk from 1,3-butadiene exposure in the general population. 1,3-Butadiene also causes a variety of reproductive and develop

  7. Effect of Stereochemistry on Directed Self-Assembly of Poly(styrene-b-lactide) Films on Chemical Patterns

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Xiao; Liu, Yadong; Wan, Lei

    2016-03-15

    We demonstrated here for the first time that the stereochemistry of polylactide (PLA) blocks affected the assembly behaviors of PS-b-PLA on chemical patterns. Two PS-b-PLA block copolymers, where the PLA block is either racemic (PDLLA) or left-handed (PLLA), were synthesized and directed to assemble on chemical patterns with a wide range of L-s/L-o. PS-b-PDLLA was stretched up to 70% on chemical patterns, while PS-b-PLLA was only stretched by 20%. The assembly behavior of PS-b-PDLLA was different from AB diblock copolymer, but similar to that of ABA triblock copolymer. The high stretchability might be attributed to the formation of stereocomplexes inmore » PDLLA blocks. Compared to ABA triblock copolymers, stereocomplexed diblock copolymers have much faster assembly kinetics. This observation provides a new concept to achieve large process windows by the introduction of specific interactions, for example, H-bonding, supramolecular interaction, and sterecomplexation, between polymer chains.« less

  8. 21 CFR 173.70 - Chloromethylated aminated styrene-divinylbenzene resin.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Chloromethylated aminated styrene-divinylbenzene resin. 173.70 Section 173.70 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED) SECONDARY DIRECT FOOD ADDITIVES PERMITTED IN FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION Polymer...

  9. Temperature-dependent self-assembly and rheological behavior of a thermoreversible pmma-P n BA-PMMA triblock copolymer gel

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zabet, Mahla; Mishra, Satish; Boy, Ramiz

    Self-assembly and mechanical properties of triblock copolymers in a mid-block selective solvent are of interest in many applications. Herein, we report physical assembly of an ABA triblock copolymer, [PMMA–PnBA–PMMA] in two different mid-block selective solvents, n-butanol and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. Gel formation resulting from end-block associations and the corresponding changes in mechanical properties have been investigated over a temperature range of -80 °C to 60 °C, from near the solvent melting points to above the gelation temperature. Shear-rheometry, thermal analysis, and small-angle neutron scattering data reveal formation and transition of structure in these systems from a liquid state to a gel statemore » to a percolated cluster network with decrease in temperature. The aggregated PMMA end-blocks display a glass transition temperature. Our results provide new understanding into the structural changes of a self-assembled triblock copolymer gel over a large length scale and wide temperature range.« less

  10. Acute health effects after accidental exposure to styrene from drinking water in Spain

    PubMed Central

    Arnedo-Pena, Alberto; Bellido-Blasco, Juan; Villamarin-Vazquez, Jose-Luis; Aranda-Mares, Jose-Luis; Font-Cardona, Nuria; Gobba, Fabriziomaria; Kogevinas, Manolis

    2003-01-01

    Objectives We studied subjective health symptoms in a population accidentally exposed to high styrene concentrations in drinking tap water. The contamination occurred during the reparation of a water tank. Methods Residents of 27 apartments in two buildings using the contaminated water were contacted. A questionnaire on subjective symptoms was administered to 84 out of 93 persons living in the apartments at the time of the accident. Styrene concentration was measured in samples of water collected two days after the accident. The means of exposure associated with appearance of symptoms were examined through case-control analyses. Results Styrene in water reached concentrations up to 900 μg/L. Symptoms were reported by 46 persons (attack rate 55 %). The most frequent symptoms were irritation of the throat (26%), nose (19%), eyes (18%) and the skin (14%). General gastrointestinal symptoms were observed with 11% reporting abdominal pain and 7% diarrhea. The factors most strongly associated with symptoms were drinking tap water (OR = 7.8, 95% CI 1.3–48), exposure to vapors from the basement (OR = 10.4, 2.3–47) and eating foods prepared with tap water (OR = 8.6, 1.9–40). All residents in the ground floor reported symptoms. Conclusions This accidental contamination led to very high styrene concentrations in water and was related to a high prevalence of subjective symptoms of the eyes, respiratory tract and skin. Similar exposures have been described in workers but not in subjects exposed at their residence. Various gastrointestinal symptoms were also observed in this population probably due to a local irritative effect. PMID:12777181

  11. Highly selective oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde over a tailor-made cobalt oxide encapsulated zeolite catalyst.

    PubMed

    Liu, Jiangyong; Wang, Zihao; Jian, Panming; Jian, Ruiqi

    2018-05-01

    A tailor-made catalyst with cobalt oxide particles encapsulated into ZSM-5 zeolites (Co 3 O 4 @HZSM-5) was prepared via a hydrothermal method with the conventional impregnated Co 3 O 4 /SiO 2 catalyst as the precursor and Si source. Various characterization results show that the Co 3 O 4 @HZSM-5 catalyst has well-organized structure with Co 3 O 4 particles compatibly encapsulated in the zeolite crystals. The Co 3 O 4 @HZSM-5 catalyst was employed as an efficient catalyst for the selective oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde with hydrogen peroxide as a green and economic oxidant. The effect of various reaction conditions including reaction time, reaction temperature, different kinds of solvents, styrene/H 2 O 2 molar ratio and catalyst dosage on the catalytic performance were systematically investigated. Under the optimized reaction condition, the yield of benzaldehyde can achieve 78.9% with 96.8% styrene conversion and 81.5% benzaldehyde selectivity. Such an excellent catalytic performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect between the confined reaction environment and the proper acidic property. In addition, the reaction mechanism with Co 3 O 4 @HZSM-5 as the catalyst for the selective oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde was reasonably proposed. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Analysis of Mechanical and Thermogravimetric Properties of Composite Materials Based on PVA/MWCNT and Styrene-Acrylic Copolymer/MWCNT

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Volynets, N. I.; Poddubskaya, O. G.; Demidenko, M. I.; Lyubimov, A. G.; Kuzhir, P. P.; Suslyaev, V. I.; Pletnev, M. A.; Zicans, Janis

    2017-08-01

    Mechanical and thermogravimetric properties of polymer composite materials with various concentrations of multiwalled carbon nanotubes effectively shielding radiation in the radio frequency (20 Hz - 1 MHz) and microwave (26-36 GHz) frequency ranges are studied. As a matrix, widely available polymeric materials, such as polyvinyl acetate and styrene-acrylate, were used in the form of dispersions. From the analysis of the obtained experimental data, it was shown that the introduction of carbon nanotubes into the polymer matrix makes it possible to increase mechanical properties and thermal stability of composite materials.

  13. Synthesis of cobalt-containing mesoporous catalysts using the ultrasonic-assisted “pH-adjusting” method: Importance of cobalt species in styrene oxidation

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Baitao, E-mail: btli@scut.edu.cn; Zhu, Yanrun; Jin, Xiaojing

    2015-01-15

    Cobalt-containing SBA-15 and MCM-41 (Co-SBA-15 and Co-MCM-41) mesoporous catalysts were prepared via ultrasonic-assisted “pH-adjusting” technique in this study. Their physiochemical structures were comprehensively characterized and correlated with catalytic activity in oxidation of styrene. The nature of cobalt species depended on the type of mesoporous silica as well as pH values. The different catalytic performance between Co-SBA-15 and Co-MCM-41 catalysts originated from cobalt species. Cobalt species were homogenously incorporated into the siliceous framework of Co-SBA-15 in single-site Co(II) state, while Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} particles were loaded on Co-MCM-41 catalysts. The styrene oxidation tests showed that the single-site Co(II) state was moremore » beneficial to the catalytic oxidation of styrene. The higher styrene conversion and benzaldehyde selectivity over Co-SBA-15 catalysts were mainly attributed to single-site Co(II) state incorporated into the framework of SBA-15. The highest conversion of styrene (34.7%) with benzaldehyde selectivity of 88.2% was obtained over Co-SBA-15 catalyst prepared at pH of 7.5, at the mole ratio of 1:1 (styrene to H{sub 2}O{sub 2}) at 70 °C. - Graphical abstract: Cobalt-containing mesoporous silica catalysts were developed via ultrasonic-assisted “pH-adjusting” technique. Compared with Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} in Co-MCM-41, the single-site Co(II) state in Co-SBA-15 was more efficient for the styrene oxidation. - Highlights: • Fast and cost-effective ultrasonic technique for preparing mesoporous materials. • Incorporation of Co via ultrasonic irradiation and “pH-adjusting”. • Physicochemical comparison between Co-SBA-15 and Co-MCM-41. • Correlation of styrene oxidation activity and catalyst structural property.« less

  14. Polymer composites prepared from heat-treated starch and styrene-butadiene latex

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Thermoplastic starch/latex polymer composites were prepared using styrene–butadiene (SB) latex and heat-treated cornstarch. The composites were prepared in a compression mold at 130 °C, with starch content 20%. An amylose-free cornstarch, waxy maize, was used for this research and the heat treatment...

  15. Morphological Consequences of Frustration in ABC Triblock Polymers

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Radlauer, Madalyn R.; Sinturel, Christophe; Asai, Yusuke

    2016-12-19

    Three poly(styrene)-block-poly(isoprene)-block-poly(lactide) (PS-b-PI-b-PLA, SIL) triblock terpolymers were synthesized and characterized in the bulk and as thin films. The pronounced incompatibility of the covalently connected PI and PLA led to significant frustration and the tendency to minimize their intermaterial dividing surface area. This resulted in the formation of a core–shell cylinder morphology with exaggerated nonconstant mean curvature from triblock polymers with equal block volume fractions rather than the more typical lamellar morphology. The effect of frustration was magnified in thin films by both confinement and interfacial interactions such that the PI domains became discontinuous. Self-consistent field theory (SCFT) calculations emphasize thatmore » the marked difference in the PS/PI and PI/PLA interaction parameters promotes the formation of nonlamellar morphologies. However, SCFT predicts that lamellar morphology is more stable than the observed cylindrical morphology, demonstrating a limitation that arises from the underlying assumptions.« less

  16. Effects of Styrene-Acrylic Sizing on the Mechanical Properties of Carbon Fiber Thermoplastic Towpregs and Their Composites.

    PubMed

    Bowman, Sean; Jiang, Qiuran; Memon, Hafeezullah; Qiu, Yiping; Liu, Wanshuang; Wei, Yi

    2018-03-01

    Thermoplastic towpregs are convenient and scalable raw materials for the fabrication of continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic matrix composites. In this paper, the potential to employ epoxy and styrene-acrylic sizing agents was evaluated for the making of carbon fiber thermoplastic towpregs via a powder-coating method. The protective effects and thermal stability of these sizing agents were investigated by single fiber tensile test and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurement. The results indicate that the epoxy sizing agent provides better protection to carbon fibers, but it cannot be used for thermoplastic towpreg processing due to its poor chemical stability at high temperature. The bending rigidity of the tows and towpregs with two styrene-acrylic sizing agents was measured by cantilever and Kawabata methods. The styrene-acrylic sized towpregs show low torque values, and are suitable for further processing, such as weaving, preforming, and winding. Finally, composite panels were fabricated directly from the towpregs by hot compression molding. Both of the composite panels show superior flexural strength (>400 MPa), flexural modulus (>63 GPa), and interlaminar shear strength (>27 MPa), indicating the applicability of these two styrene-acrylic sizing agents for carbon fiber thermoplastic towpregs.

  17. Selectivity switch for nitrogen functionalization of styrene on Au(1 1 1)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deng, Xingyi; Friend, Cynthia M.

    2008-03-01

    Functionalization of styrene to form N-containing hydrocarbons, e.g. 2-phenylaziridine, benzonitrile, and benzyl nitrile, is achieved by reaction with adsorbed NH a and N a on Au(1 1 1). Electron-induced decomposition of condensed NH 3 was used to produce NH a, N a and H a on Au(1 1 1) at 110 K. The selectivity of the reactions is strongly dependent on the relative concentrations of the surface species. The addition of NH to styrene results in the production of 2-phenylaziridine, whereas adsorbed N and H atoms lead to the formation of nitriles benzonitrile and benzyl nitrile and, respectively, ethylbenzene. This work clearly establishes the utility of Au for promoting functionalization of olefins with nitrogen.

  18. Investigating bacterial populations in styrene-degrading biofilters by 16S rDNA tag pyrosequencing.

    PubMed

    Portune, Kevin J; Pérez, M Carmen; Álvarez-Hornos, F Javier; Gabaldón, Carmen

    2015-01-01

    Microbial biofilms are essential components in the elimination of pollutants within biofilters, yet still little is known regarding the complex relationships between microbial community structure and biodegradation function within these engineered ecosystems. To further explore this relationship, 16S rDNA tag pyrosequencing was applied to samples taken at four time points from a styrene-degrading biofilter undergoing variable operating conditions. Changes in microbial structure were observed between different stages of biofilter operation, and the level of styrene concentration was revealed to be a critical factor affecting these changes. Bacterial genera Azoarcus and Pseudomonas were among the dominant classified genera in the biofilter. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) and correlation analysis revealed that the genera Brevundimonas, Hydrogenophaga, and Achromobacter may play important roles in styrene degradation under increasing styrene concentrations. No significant correlations (P > 0.05) could be detected between biofilter operational/functional parameters and biodiversity measurements, although biological heterogeneity within biofilms and/or technical variability within pyrosequencing may have considerably affected these results. Percentages of selected bacterial taxonomic groups detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were compared to results from pyrosequencing in order to assess the effectiveness and limitations of each method for identifying each microbial taxon. Comparison of results revealed discrepancies between the two methods in the detected percentages of numerous taxonomic groups. Biases and technical limitations of both FISH and pyrosequencing, such as the binding of FISH probes to non-target microbial groups and lack of classification of sequences for defined taxonomic groups from pyrosequencing, may partially explain some differences between the two methods.

  19. Comparative acute toxicity of leachates from plastic products made of polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, and epoxy to Daphnia magna.

    PubMed

    Lithner, Delilah; Nordensvan, Ildikó; Dave, Göran

    2012-06-01

    The large global production of plastics and their presence everywhere in the society and the environment create a need for assessing chemical hazards and risks associated with plastic products. The aims of this study were to determine and compare the toxicity of leachates from plastic products made of five plastics types and to identify the class of compounds that is causing the toxicity. Selected plastic types were those with the largest global annual production, that is, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or those composed of hazardous monomers (e.g., PVC, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene [ABS], and epoxy). Altogether 26 plastic products were leached in deionized water (3 days at 50°C), and the water phases were tested for acute toxicity to Daphnia magna. Initial Toxicity Identification Evaluations (C18 filtration and EDTA addition) were performed on six leachates. For eleven leachates (42%) 48-h EC50s (i.e the concentration that causes effect in 50 percent of the test organisms) were below the highest test concentration, 250 g plastic/L. All leachates from plasticized PVC (5/5) and epoxy (5/5) products were toxic (48-h EC50s ranging from 2 to 235 g plastic/L). None of the leachates from polypropylene (5/5), ABS (5/5), and rigid PVC (1/1) products showed toxicity, but one of the five tested HDPE leachates was toxic (48-h EC50 17-24 g plastic/L). Toxicity Identification Evaluations indicated that mainly hydrophobic organics were causing the toxicity and that metals were the main cause for one leachate (metal release was also confirmed by chemical analysis). Toxic chemicals leached even during the short-term leaching in water, mainly from plasticized PVC and epoxy products.

  20. The development of a micro-shunt made from poly(styrene-block-isobutylene-block-styrene) to treat glaucoma.

    PubMed

    Pinchuk, Leonard; Riss, Isabelle; Batlle, Juan F; Kato, Yasushi P; Martin, John B; Arrieta, Esdras; Palmberg, Paul; Parrish, Richard K; Weber, Bruce A; Kwon, Yongmoon; Parel, Jean-Marie

    2017-01-01

    Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness with ∼70 million people worldwide who are blind from this disease. The currently practiced trabeculectomy surgery, the gold standard treatment used to stop the progression of vision loss, is rather draconian, traumatic to the patient and requires much surgical skill to perform. This article summarizes the more than 10-year development path of a novel device called the InnFocus MicroShunt®, which is a minimally invasive glaucoma drainage micro-tube used to shunt aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye to a flap formed under the conjunctiva and Tenon's Capsule. The safety and clinical performance of this device approaches that of trabeculectomy. The impetus to develop this device stemmed from the invention of a new biomaterial called poly(styrene-block-isobutylene-block-styrene), or "SIBS." SIBS is ultra-stable with virtually no foreign body reaction in the body, which manifests in the eye as clinically insignificant inflammation and capsule formation. The quest for an easier, safer, and more effective method of treating glaucoma led to the marriage of SIBS with this glaucoma drainage micro-tube. This article summarizes the development of SIBS and the subsequent three iterations of design and four clinical trials that drove the one-year qualified success rate of the device from 43% to 100%. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 211-221, 2017. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterials Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  1. Development of bio-based polymers for use in asphalt.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-02-01

    Asphalt binder is typically modified with poly type (styrene-butadiene-styrene or SBS) polymers to improve its rheological properties and performance grade. The elastic and principal component of SBS polymers is butadiene. For the last decade, butadi...

  2. Early stages of styrene-isoprene copolymerization in gas phase clusters probed by resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization.

    PubMed

    Mahmoud, Hatem; Germanenko, Igor N; El-Shall, M Samy

    2006-04-06

    We present direct evidence for the formation of the covalent bonded styrene (isoprene)(2) oligomer and the isoprene dimer ions following resonance ionization of the gas phase styrene-isoprene binary clusters. The application of resonance ionization to study polymerization reactions in clusters provides new information on the structure and mechanism of formation of the early stages of polymerization and holds considerable promise for the discovery of new initiation mechanisms and for the development of novel materials with unique properties.

  3. SELECTIVE OXIDATION OF STYRENE TO ACETOPHENONE IN PRESENCE OF IONIC LIQUIDS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Palladium-catalyzed oxidation of styrene (Wacker reaction) in the presence of 1,3-dialkylimidazolium cation based ionic liquids is described. The effect of temperature, use of co-catalyst, and recyclability aspects for the generation of carbonyl compounds using environmentally de...

  4. Risk of cancer in workers exposed to styrene at eight British companies making glass-reinforced plastics.

    PubMed

    Coggon, David; Ntani, Georgia; Harris, E Clare; Palmer, Keith T

    2015-03-01

    To provide further information on the risks of lymphohaematopoietic (LH) and other cancers associated with styrene. We extended follow-up to December 2012 for 7970 workers at eight companies in England which used styrene in the manufacture of glass-reinforced plastics. Mortality was compared with that for England and Wales by the person-years method, and summarised by SMRs with 95% CIs. A supplementary nested case-control analysis compared styrene exposures, lagged by 5 years, in 122 incident or fatal cases of LH cancer and 1138 matched controls. A total of 3121 cohort members had died (2022 since the last follow-up). No elevation of mortality was observed for LH cancer, either in the full cohort (62 deaths, SMR 0.90, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.15), or in those with more than background exposure to styrene (38 deaths, SMR 0.82, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.14). Nor did the case-control analysis suggest any association with LH cancer. In comparison with background exposure, the OR for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma/chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in workers with high exposure (estimated 8-h time-weighted average of 40-100 ppm) for ≥1 year was 0.54 (95% CI 0.23 to 1.27). Mortality from lung cancer was significantly elevated, and risk increased progressively across exposure categories, with an SMR of 1.44 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.86) in workers highly exposed for ≥1 year. We found no evidence that styrene causes LH cancer. An association with lung cancer is not consistently supported by other studies. It may have been confounded by smoking, but would be worth checking further. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

  5. Recycling of engineering plastics from waste electrical and electronic equipments: influence of virgin polycarbonate and impact modifier on the final performance of blends.

    PubMed

    Ramesh, V; Biswal, Manoranjan; Mohanty, Smita; Nayak, Sanjay K

    2014-05-01

    This study is focused on the recovery and recycling of plastics waste, primarily polycarbonate, poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and high impact polystyrene, from end-of-life waste electrical and electronic equipments. Recycling of used polycarbonate, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polycarbonate/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/high impact polystrene material was carried out using material recycling through a melt blending process. An optimized blend composition was formulated to achieve desired properties from different plastics present in the waste electrical and electronic equipments. The toughness of blended plastics was improved with the addition of 10 wt% of virgin polycarbonate and impact modifier (ethylene-acrylic ester-glycidyl methacrylate). The mechanical, thermal, dynamic-mechanical and morphological properties of recycled blend were investigated. Improved properties of blended plastics indicate better miscibility in the presence of a compatibilizer suitable for high-end application.

  6. Homogeneous graft copolymerization of styrene onto cellulose in a sulfur dioxide-diethylamine-dimethyl sulfoxide cellulose solvent

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Tsuzuki, M.; Hagiwara, I.; Shiraishi, N.

    1980-12-01

    Graft copolymerization of styrene onto cellulose was studied in a homogeneous system (SO/sub 2/(liquid)- diethylamine (DEA)-dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) medium)) by ..gamma..-ray mutual irradiation technique. At the same time, homopolymerization of styrene was also examined separately in DMSO, SO/sub 2/-DMSO, DEA-DMSO, and SO/sub 2/-DEA-DMSO media by the same technique. Polymerization of styrene hardly occurs on concentrations above 10 mole SO/sub 2/-DEA complex per mole glucose unit. Maximum percent grafting was obtained in concentrations of 4 mole, after which it decreased rapidly. Total conversion and percent grafting increased with the irradiation time. The value (=0.55) of the slope of the total conversionmore » rate plotted against the dose was only a little higher than the 1/2 which was expected from normal kinetics. No retardation in homopolymerization of styrene in DMSO, SO/sub 2/-DMSO, and DEA-DMSO was evident, while the retardation of homopolymerization in the SO/sub 2/-DEA-DMSO medium was measurable. Sulfur atoms were detected in the polymers obtained in both of SO/sub 2/-DMSO and SO/sub 2/-DEA-DMSO solutions. All of the molecular weights of polymers obtained in the present experiment were very low (3.9 x 10/sup 3/-1.75 x 10/sup 4/).« less

  7. A comparison between the effects of gamma radiation and sulfur cure system on the microstructure and crosslink network of (styrene butadiene rubber/ethylene propylene diene monomer) blends in presence of nanoclay

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shoushtari Zadeh Naseri, Aida; Jalali-Arani, Azam

    2015-10-01

    Rubber blends based on (styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)/ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM)) with and without organoclay (OC) were prepared through a melt mixing process. The concentration ratio of the rubber phases (EPDM/SBR; 50/50 wt%) and the amount of the OC were kept constant. The samples were then vulcanized by means of gamma radiation using a Co-60 gamma source as well as sulfur cure system. The effect of absorbed dose on the formation of the crosslinks was confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The effects of absorbed dose, sulfur cure system and OC on the gel content, and crosslink density were evaluated by the chemical tests. Applying the Charlesby-Pinner equation to estimate the radiation chemical yield, revealed that the use of OC in the blend caused 20% reduction in the degradation/crosslinking ratio. Employing the swelling test data, some thermodynamic parameters were determined. Using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) to investigate microstructure of the samples revealed a more homogeneous structure and also an increase in compatibility of the blend components in the sample cured by the irradiation in comparison to that cured by the sulfur curing system.

  8. Temperature-dependent self-assembly and rheological behavior of a thermoreversible pmma-P n BA-PMMA triblock copolymer gel

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zabet, Mahla; Mishra, Satish; Boy, Ramiz

    We present that self-assembly and mechanical properties of triblock copolymers in a mid-block selective solvent are of interest in many applications. Herein, we report physical assembly of an ABA triblock copolymer, [PMMA–PnBA–PMMA] in two different mid-block selective solvents, n-butanol and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. Gel formation resulting from end-block associations and the corresponding changes in mechanical properties have been investigated over a temperature range of -80 °C to 60 °C, from near the solvent melting points to above the gelation temperature. Shear-rheometry, thermal analysis, and small-angle neutron scattering data reveal formation and transition of structure in these systems from a liquid state tomore » a gel state to a percolated cluster network with decrease in temperature. The aggregated PMMA end-blocks display a glass transition temperature. Finally, our results provide new understanding into the structural changes of a self-assembled triblock copolymer gel over a large length scale and wide temperature range.« less

  9. Temperature-dependent self-assembly and rheological behavior of a thermoreversible pmma-P n BA-PMMA triblock copolymer gel

    DOE PAGES

    Zabet, Mahla; Mishra, Satish; Boy, Ramiz; ...

    2017-03-25

    We present that self-assembly and mechanical properties of triblock copolymers in a mid-block selective solvent are of interest in many applications. Herein, we report physical assembly of an ABA triblock copolymer, [PMMA–PnBA–PMMA] in two different mid-block selective solvents, n-butanol and 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. Gel formation resulting from end-block associations and the corresponding changes in mechanical properties have been investigated over a temperature range of -80 °C to 60 °C, from near the solvent melting points to above the gelation temperature. Shear-rheometry, thermal analysis, and small-angle neutron scattering data reveal formation and transition of structure in these systems from a liquid state tomore » a gel state to a percolated cluster network with decrease in temperature. The aggregated PMMA end-blocks display a glass transition temperature. Finally, our results provide new understanding into the structural changes of a self-assembled triblock copolymer gel over a large length scale and wide temperature range.« less

  10. The Structure of Ethylbenzene, Styrene and Phenylacetylene Determined by Total Neutron Scattering

    PubMed Central

    Szala‐Bilnik, Joanna; Falkowska, Marta; Bowron, Daniel T.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Organic solvents such as phenylacetylene, styrene and ethylbenzene are widely used in industrial processes, especially in the production of rubber or thermoplastics. Despite their important applications detailed knowledge about their structure is limited. In this paper the structures of these three aromatic solvents were investigated using neutron diffraction. The results show that many of their structural characteristics are similar, although the structure of phenylacetylene is more ordered and has a smaller solvation sphere than either ethylbenzene or styrene. Two regions within the first coordination sphere, in which the surrounding molecules show different preferable orientations with respect to the central molecule, were found for each liquid. Additionally, the localisation of the aliphatic chains reveals that they tend to favour closer interactions with each other than to the aromatic rings of the adjacent molecules. PMID:28672104

  11. Mono- and dinuclear bioxazoline-palladium complexes for the stereocontrolled synthesis of CO/styrene polyketones.

    PubMed

    Scarel, Alessandro; Durand, Jérôme; Franchi, Davide; Zangrando, Ennio; Mestroni, Giovanni; Carfagna, Carla; Mosca, Luca; Seraglia, Roberta; Consiglio, Giambattista; Milani, Barbara

    2005-10-07

    The coordination chemistry of the chiral bioxazoline ligand (4S,4'S)-2,2'-bis(4-isopropyl-4,5-dihydrooxazole) to Pd(II) provides evidence that the ligand bonding can occur either through chelation of one Pd(II) ion leading to a mononuclear species with the expected cis geometry, or by double bridging of two Pd(II) ions giving a dinuclear complex with trans geometry. The species in solution are identified by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Both the mononuclear and the dinuclear complexes promote the CO/styrene copolymerization, yielding the corresponding polyketone with a fully or a predominantly isotactic microstructure, depending on the reaction medium. The nature of the anion present in the palladium precatalysts affects the polyketone stereochemistry. MALDI-TOF analysis of the copolymers synthesized reveals the presence of p-hydroxyphenolic end-groups, thus confirming and explaining the role of 1,4-hydroquinone as a molecular weight regulator.

  12. Effects of content and surface hydrophobic modification of BaTiO3 on the cooling properties of ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiang, Bo; Zhang, Jun

    2018-01-01

    For the field of cool material, barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) is still a new member that needs to be further studied. Herein, the effects of both content and surface hydrophobic modification of BT on the cooling properties of acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer (ASA) were detailedly investigated, aiming to fabricate composited cool material. Butyl acrylate (BA) was employed to convert the surface of BT from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. The addition of unmodified BT could significantly improve the solar reflectance of ASA, especially when the addition amount is 3 vol%, the near infrared (NIR) reflectance increased from 22.02 to 72.60%. However, serious agglomeration occurred when the addition amount increased to 5 vol% and therefore led to a relatively smaller increase in solar reflectance and an obvious decline in impact strength. After surface hydrophobic modification, the modified BT (M-BT) presented better dispersibility in ASA matrix, which contributed to the improvement of both solar reflectance and impact strength. In addition, the temperature test provided a more sufficient and intuitive way to evaluate the cooling effect of the composited cool materials, and a significant decrease (over 10 °C) could be achieved in the temperature test when M-BT particles were introduced.

  13. The influences of ammonia on aerosol formation in the ozonolysis of styrene: roles of Criegee intermediate reactions

    PubMed Central

    Ma, Qiao; Lin, Xiaoxiao; Yang, Chengqiang; Long, Bo; Zhang, Weijun

    2018-01-01

    The influences of ammonia (NH3) on secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation from ozonolysis of styrene have been investigated using chamber experiments and quantum chemical calculations. With the value of [O3]0/[styrene]0 ratios between 2 and 4, chamber experiments were carried out without NH3 or under different [NH3]/[styrene]0 ratios. The chamber experiments reveal that the addition of NH3 led to significant decrease of SOA yield. The overall SOA yield decreased with the [NH3]0/[styrene]0 increasing. In addition, the addition of NH3 at the beginning of the reaction or several hours after the reaction occurs had obviously different influence on the yield of SOA. Gas phase reactions of Criegee intermediates (CIs) with aldehydes and NH3 were studied in detail by theoretical methods to probe into the mechanisms behind these phenomena. The calculated results showed that 3,5-diphenyl-1,2,4-trioxolane, a secondary ozonide formed through the reactions of C6H5ĊHOO· with C6H5CHO, could make important contribution to the aerosol composition. The addition of excess NH3 may compete with aldehydes, decreasing the secondary ozonide yield to some extent and thus affect the SOA formation. PMID:29892406

  14. Biodegradation of gas-phase styrene using the fungus Sporothrix variecibatus: impact of pollutant load and transient operation.

    PubMed

    Rene, Eldon R; Veiga, María C; Kennes, Christian

    2010-03-01

    Biofiltration of gas-phase styrene was studied using a newly isolated fungus Sporothrix variecibatus, in a perlite biofilter, at inlet concentrations and gas-flow rates ranging from 0.13 to 14 g m(-3) and 0.075 to 0.34 m(3) h(-1), respectively, corresponding to empty bed residence times (EBRT) ranging between 91 and 20s. Styrene loading rates were varied between 50 and 845 g m(-3) h(-1)and a maximum elimination capacity of 336 g m(-3) h(-1) was attained with nearly 65% styrene removal. On the other hand, the critical inlet loads to achieve more than 90% removal were 301, 240 and 92 g m(-3) h(-1) for EBRT of 91, 40, and 20s, respectively. In order to test the stability and shock bearing capacity of the fungal biofilter, short-term tests were conducted by suddenly increasing the gas-phase styrene concentration, while maintaining the gas-flow rate constant. The response, a restoration in the removal performance to previous high values, after subjecting the biofilter to shock loads proves the resilient nature of the attached Sporothrix sp. and its suitability for biofiltration under non-steady state conditions. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Immobilization of styrene-substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazoles into thermoreversible luminescent organogels and their unexpected photocatalyzed rearrangement.

    PubMed

    Dumur, Frédéric; Contal, Emmanuel; Wantz, Guillaume; Phan, Trang N T; Bertin, Denis; Gigmes, Didier

    2013-01-21

    A series of styrene-substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazoles has been designed and investigated as new low-molecular-weight organogelators. The photophysical properties of the resulting thermoreversible organogels have been characterized by UV/Vis absorption and luminescence spectroscopies. Surprisingly, the gelation ability of the oxadiazoles depended on the presence of the styrene moiety as gelation of the investigated oxadiazoles did not take place in its absence. Gel formation was accompanied by a modification of the fluorescence of the organogelators in the supramolecular state. UV irradiation of the gels caused a rearrangement of the immobilized 1,3,4-oxadiazoles bearing a styrene moiety by a tandem [4+2] and [3+2] cascade reaction. Structure modification and color change of the gels were also evident upon irradiation. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Comparison of DNA-Reactive Metabolites from Nitrosamine and Styrene Using Voltammetric DNA/Microsomes Sensors

    PubMed Central

    Krishnan, Sadagopan; Bajrami, Besnik; Mani, Vigneshwaran; Pan, Shenmin; Rusling, James F.

    2012-01-01

    Voltammetric sensors made with films of polyions, double-stranded DNA and liver microsomes adsorbed layer-by-layer onto pyrolytic graphite electrodes were evaluated for reactive metabolite screening. This approach features simple, inexpensive screening without enzyme purification for applications in drug or environmental chemical development. Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) in the liver microsomes were activated by an NADPH regenerating system or by electrolysis to metabolize model carcinogenic compounds nitrosamine and styrene. Reactive metabolites formed in the films were trapped as adducts with nucleobases on DNA. The DNA damage was detected by square-wave voltammetry (SWV) using Ru(bpy)32+ as a DNA-oxidation catalyst. These sensors showed a larger rate of increase in signal vs. reaction time for a highly toxic nitrosamine than for the moderately toxic styrene due to more rapid reactive metabolite-DNA adduct formation. Results were consistent with reported in vivo TD50 data for the formation of liver tumors in rats. Analogous polyion/ liver microsome films prepared on 500 nm silica nanoparticles (nanoreactors) and reacted with nitrosamine or styrene, provided LC-MS or GC analyses of metabolite formation rates that correlated well with sensor response. PMID:23100998

  17. Experimental data on compressive strength and durability of sulfur concrete modified by styrene and bitumen.

    PubMed

    Dehestani, M; Teimortashlu, E; Molaei, M; Ghomian, M; Firoozi, S; Aghili, S

    2017-08-01

    In this data article experimental data on the compressive strength, and the durability of styrene and bitumen modified sulfur concrete against acidic water and ignition are presented. The percent of the sulfur cement and the gradation of the aggregates used are according to the ACI 548.2R-93 and ASTM 3515 respectively. For the styrene modified sulfur concrete different percentages of styrene are used. Also for the bitumen modified sulfur concrete, different percentages of bitumen and the emulsifying agent (triton X-100) are utilized. From each batch three 10×10×10 cm cubic samples were casted. One of the samples was used for the compressive strength on the second day of casting, and one on the twenty-eighth day. Then the two samples were put under the high pressure flame of the burning liquid gas for thirty seconds and their ignition resistances were observed. The third sample was put into the acidic water and after twenty eight days immersion in water was dried in the ambient temperature. After drying its compressive strength has been evaluated.

  18. Using heat-treated starch to modify the surface of biochar and improve the tensile properties of biochar-filled stryene-butadiene rubber composites

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Heat-treated starch is a renewable material that can be used to modify the surface chemistry of small particles. In this work, heat-treated starch was used to coat hydrophilic biochar particles in order to make them more hydrophobic. Then when added as filler to hydrophobic styrene-butadiene rubber,...

  19. Study of structural morphologies of thermoresponsive diblock AB and triblock BAB copolymers (A = poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), B = polystyrene)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rodríguez-Hidalgo, María del Rosario; Soto-Figueroa, César; Vicente, Luis

    2018-03-01

    Structural morphologies of diblock AB and triblock BAB copolymers (A = poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), B = polystyrene) in aqueous environment have been investigated by dissipative particle dynamics (DPD). In triblock copolymers insoluble PS blocks contract while soluble pNIPAM blocks stay at the periphery forming looped chains as corona. As the temperature is increased there is a continuous morphological transition and micelles form ellipsoidal structures with segregated polymer zones. The phase transition of looped pNIPAM chains occurs at lower temperature than for linear chains and within broader temperature range. It is discussed how the chain topology of pNIPAM affects the phase transition.

  20. N-terminus determines activity and specificity of styrene monooxygenase reductases.

    PubMed

    Heine, Thomas; Scholtissek, Anika; Westphal, Adrie H; van Berkel, Willem J H; Tischler, Dirk

    2017-12-01

    Styrene monooxygenases (SMOs) are two-enzyme systems that catalyze the enantioselective epoxidation of styrene to (S)-styrene oxide. The FADH 2 co-substrate of the epoxidase component (StyA) is supplied by an NADH-dependent flavin reductase (StyB). The genome of Rhodococcus opacus 1CP encodes two SMO systems. One system, which we define as E1-type, displays homology to the SMO from Pseudomonas taiwanensis VLB120. The other system, originally reported as a fused system (RoStyA2B), is defined as E2-type. Here we found that E1-type RoStyB is inhibited by FMN, while RoStyA2B is known to be active with FMN. To rationalize the observed specificity of RoStyB for FAD, we generated an artificial reductase, designated as RoStyBart, in which the first 22 amino acid residues of RoStyB were joined to the reductase part of RoStyA2B, while the oxygenase part (A2) was removed. RoStyBart mainly purified as apo-protein and mimicked RoStyB in being inhibited by FMN. Pre-incubation with FAD yielded a turnover number at 30°C of 133.9±3.5s -1 , one of the highest rates observed for StyB reductases. RoStyBart holo-enzyme switches to a ping-pong mechanism and fluorescence analysis indicated for unproductive binding of FMN to the second (co-substrate) binding site. In summary, it is shown for the first time that optimization of the N-termini of StyB reductases allows the evolution of their activity and specificity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Solvothermal Vapor Annealing of Lamellar Poly(styrene)-block-poly(d,l-lactide) Block Copolymer Thin Films for Directed Self-Assembly Application.

    PubMed

    Cummins, Cian; Mokarian-Tabari, Parvaneh; Andreazza, Pascal; Sinturel, Christophe; Morris, Michael A

    2016-03-01

    Solvothermal vapor annealing (STVA) was employed to induce microphase separation in a lamellar forming block copolymer (BCP) thin film containing a readily degradable block. Directed self-assembly of poly(styrene)-block-poly(d,l-lactide) (PS-b-PLA) BCP films using topographically patterned silicon nitride was demonstrated with alignment over macroscopic areas. Interestingly, we observed lamellar patterns aligned parallel as well as perpendicular (perpendicular microdomains to substrate in both cases) to the topography of the graphoepitaxial guiding patterns. PS-b-PLA BCP microphase separated with a high degree of order in an atmosphere of tetrahydrofuran (THF) at an elevated vapor pressure (at approximately 40-60 °C). Grazing incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS) measurements of PS-b-PLA films reveal the through-film uniformity of perpendicular microdomains after STVA. Perpendicular lamellar orientation was observed on both hydrophilic and relatively hydrophobic surfaces with a domain spacing (L0) of ∼32.5 nm. The rapid removal of the PLA microdomains is demonstrated using a mild basic solution for the development of a well-defined PS mask template. GISAXS data reveal the through-film uniformity is retained following wet etching. The experimental results in this article demonstrate highly oriented PS-b-PLA microdomains after a short annealing period and facile PLA removal to form porous on-chip etch masks for nanolithography application.

  2. Co-polymerization of methyl methacrylate and styrene via surfactant-free emulsion polymerization, as a potential material for photonic crystal application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kassim, Syara; Zahari, Siti Balqis; Tahrin, Rabiatul Addawiyah Azwa; Harun, Noor Aniza

    2017-09-01

    Photonic crystals are being the great interest of researcher to studies due to a variety of potential application for the interaction of light including the solar cells, optical sensors and paints. In order to evaluate the fabrication of photonic crystals thin film, a free-emulsifier emulsion copolymerization of styrene and methyl methacrylate was carried out. By using the self -assembly approach, this method offers the opportunity to produce crystalline polymer sphere in more ease operation, low cost and environmental friendly. The influences of the mixing ratio of monomer and amount of initiators were studied. In advance, the presence of styrene as co-monomer had improved the thermal degradation of polymer methyl methacrylate. While in changing the mixing ratio of styrene and methyl methacrylate resulted in particle size of the sphere. The size of polymer particles slightly increased on increasing volume of styrene monomer ratio. This occurred because the properties of styrene in water where it sparingly soluble and lead to coagulation of particles. This simple, yet effective method for preparing functional complex 3D structures has the potential to be used generically to fabricate a variety of functional porous 3D structures that could find application not only in new or improved photonic crystal (PC) devices but also in areas such as catalysis, solar cell, separation, fuel cells technology, microelectronics and optoelectronics.

  3. Evaluation of the Parameters and Conditions of Process in the Ethylbenzene Dehydrogenation with Application of Permselective Membranes to Enhance Styrene Yield

    PubMed Central

    Araújo, Paulo Jardel P.; Leite, Manuela Souza; Kakuta Ravagnani, Teresa M.

    2016-01-01

    Styrene is an important monomer in the manufacture of thermoplastic. Most of it is produced by the catalytic dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene. In this process that depends on reversible reactions, the yield is usually limited by the establishment of thermodynamic equilibrium in the reactor. The styrene yield can be increased by using a hybrid process, with reaction and separation simultaneously. It is proposed using permselective composite membrane to remove hydrogen and thus suppress the reverse and secondary reactions. This paper describes the simulation of a dehydrogenation process carried out in a tubular fixed-bed reactor wrapped in a permselective composite membrane. A mathematical model was developed, incorporating the various mass transport mechanisms found in each of the membrane layers and in the catalytic fixed bed. The effects of the reactor feed conditions (temperature, steam-to-oil ratio, and the weight hourly space velocity), the fixed-bed geometry (length, diameter, and volume), and the membrane geometry (thickness of the layers) on the styrene yield were analyzed. These variables were used to determine experimental conditions that favour the production of styrene. The simulation showed that an increase of 40.98% in the styrene yield, compared to a conventional fixed-bed process, could be obtained by wrapping the reactor in a permselective composite membrane. PMID:27069982

  4. Evaluation of the Parameters and Conditions of Process in the Ethylbenzene Dehydrogenation with Application of Permselective Membranes to Enhance Styrene Yield.

    PubMed

    Araújo, Paulo Jardel P; Leite, Manuela Souza; Ravagnani, Teresa M Kakuta

    2016-01-01

    Styrene is an important monomer in the manufacture of thermoplastic. Most of it is produced by the catalytic dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene. In this process that depends on reversible reactions, the yield is usually limited by the establishment of thermodynamic equilibrium in the reactor. The styrene yield can be increased by using a hybrid process, with reaction and separation simultaneously. It is proposed using permselective composite membrane to remove hydrogen and thus suppress the reverse and secondary reactions. This paper describes the simulation of a dehydrogenation process carried out in a tubular fixed-bed reactor wrapped in a permselective composite membrane. A mathematical model was developed, incorporating the various mass transport mechanisms found in each of the membrane layers and in the catalytic fixed bed. The effects of the reactor feed conditions (temperature, steam-to-oil ratio, and the weight hourly space velocity), the fixed-bed geometry (length, diameter, and volume), and the membrane geometry (thickness of the layers) on the styrene yield were analyzed. These variables were used to determine experimental conditions that favour the production of styrene. The simulation showed that an increase of 40.98% in the styrene yield, compared to a conventional fixed-bed process, could be obtained by wrapping the reactor in a permselective composite membrane.

  5. A FLUORESCENCE BASED ASSAY FOR DNA DAMAGE INDUCED BY STYRENE OXIDE

    EPA Science Inventory

    A rapid and simple assay to detect DNA damage to calf thymus DNA caused by styrene oxide (SO) is reported. This assay is based on changes observed in the melting and annealing behavior of the damaged DNA. The melting annealing process was monitored using a fluorescence indicat...

  6. Hydrogen Bonding-Mediated Microphase Separation during the Formation of Mesoporous Novolac-Type Phenolic Resin Templated by the Triblock Copolymer, PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO

    PubMed Central

    Chu, Wei-Cheng; Chiang, Shih-Fan; Li, Jheng-Guang; Kuo, Shiao-Wei

    2013-01-01

    After blending the triblock copolymer, poly(ethylene oxide-b-propylene oxide-b-ethylene oxide) (PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO) with novolac-type phenolic resin, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the ether groups of the PEO block were stronger hydrogen bond acceptors for the OH groups of phenolic resin than were the ether groups of the PPO block. Thermal curing with hexamethylenetetramine as the curing agent resulted in the triblock copolymer being incorporated into the phenolic resin, forming a nanostructure through a mechanism involving reaction-induced microphase separation. Mild pyrolysis conditions led to the removal of the PEO-b-PPO-b-PEO triblock copolymer and formation of mesoporous phenolic resin. This approach provided a variety of composition-dependent nanostructures, including disordered wormlike, body-centered-cubic spherical and disorder micelles. The regular mesoporous novolac-type phenolic resin was formed only at a phenolic content of 40–60 wt %, the result of an intriguing balance of hydrogen bonding interactions among the phenolic resin and the PEO and PPO segments of the triblock copolymer. PMID:28788378

  7. Acute biotoxic effect of styrene on rat liver. Correlation with enzyme-mediated mutagenicity of benzpyrene and acrylonitrile.

    PubMed

    Roberfroid, M; Poncelet, F; Lambotte-Vandepaer, M; Duverger-Van Bogaert, M; de Meester, C; Mercier, M

    1978-01-01

    Styrene is commonly used in western Europe for the manufacture of plastics suitable for packaging foodstuffs. This report demonstrates that, injected intraperitoneally at a dose as low as 10 mg/kg, styrene modifies the catalytic properties of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase by reducing its KM value. A similar effect is reported for two potent chemical carcinogens, 3-methylcholanthrene and benzo(a)pyrene. Ethylbenzene and benzo(e)pyrene and phenobarbital do not produce the same effect. Pretreatments of the rats with chemicals which modify aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase also increase the capacity of the liver enzymes to activate benzopyrene to a mutagenic intermediate in vitro, as measured by the Ames test for mutagenicity. Exposure to both styrene and the other modifiers of the xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes could thus influence the carcinogenic and toxic effects of chemicals which are activated by these enzymes. This hypothesis needs further investigation.

  8. The Structure of Ethylbenzene, Styrene and Phenylacetylene Determined by Total Neutron Scattering.

    PubMed

    Szala-Bilnik, Joanna; Falkowska, Marta; Bowron, Daniel T; Hardacre, Christopher; Youngs, Tristan G A

    2017-09-20

    Organic solvents such as phenylacetylene, styrene and ethylbenzene are widely used in industrial processes, especially in the production of rubber or thermoplastics. Despite their important applications detailed knowledge about their structure is limited. In this paper the structures of these three aromatic solvents were investigated using neutron diffraction. The results show that many of their structural characteristics are similar, although the structure of phenylacetylene is more ordered and has a smaller solvation sphere than either ethylbenzene or styrene. Two regions within the first coordination sphere, in which the surrounding molecules show different preferable orientations with respect to the central molecule, were found for each liquid. Additionally, the localisation of the aliphatic chains reveals that they tend to favour closer interactions with each other than to the aromatic rings of the adjacent molecules. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Domino-Fluorination-Protodefluorination Enables Decarboxylative Cross-Coupling of α-Oxocarboxylic Acids with Styrene via Photoredox Catalysis.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Muliang; Xi, Junwei; Ruzi, Rehanguli; Li, Nan; Wu, Zhongkai; Li, Weipeng; Zhu, Chengjian

    2017-09-15

    Domino-fluorination-protodefluorination decarboxylative cross-coupling of α-keto acids with styrene has been developed via photoredox catalysis. The critical part of this strategy is the formation of the carbon-fluorine (C-F) bond by the capture of a carbon-centered radical intermediate, which will overcome side reactions during the styrene radical functionalization process. Experimental studies have provided evidence indicating a domino-fluorination-protodefluorination pathway with α-keto acid initiating the photoredox cycle. The present catalytic protocol also affords a novel approach for the construction of α,β-unsaturated ketones under mild conditions.

  10. [Changes in the peripheral blood of workers engaged in ethylbenzene-styrene and synthetic rubber and latex manufacture].

    PubMed

    Khristeva, V

    1986-01-01

    A total of 67 workers were examined from the production of "Ethyl benzene-styrene" and 184 workers from the production of "Synthetic rubber and latex", as well as a control group of 59 employees. The workers from the first production are exposed to the effect of styrene, ethyl benzene and toluene. The concentrations of the substances surpass MAC, with several times, at the majority of the working places. The workers with a length of service over 10 years predominate. The workers from the second production are exposed to the combined effect of styrene and divinyl, their concentrations fluctuating from 2 to 8 times over MAC. The workers with a length of service over 10 years are 71.7%. The deviations, established in the hematological indices studied are compared with the results from a study on the workers from those productions of 6 years ago. Dynamics in the changes was established among the workers from the production of "Synthetic rubber and latex", associated with the duration of occupational exposure to styrene and divinyl. In case of a shorter length of service, the deviations are functional (reduction of peroxidase activity in granulocytes), increase of hemoglobin and hematocrit, associated with the adaptive reaction of organism. Pronounced anemic syndrome was established in a considerable number (24 workers) after an exposure of 10 years as well as lymphocytosis (35 subjects) and leukopenia (9 subjects).

  11. Effect of shearing on the reinforcement properties of vital wheat gluten

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The reinforcement properties of vital wheat gluten as a biomaterial filler for a carboxylated styrene-butadiene rubber were examined to assess its effectiveness as a filler for carboxylated styrene-butadiene rubber composites. Composites were formulated using 10-40% vital wheat gluten by mixing aqu...

  12. Effect of operating temperature on styrene mass transfer characteristics in a biotrickling filter.

    PubMed

    Parnian, Parham; Zamir, Seyed Morteza; Shojaosadati, Seyed Abbas

    2017-05-01

    To study the effect of operating temperature on styrene mass transfer from gas to liquid phase in biotrickling filters (BTFs), overall mass transfer coefficient (K L a) was calculated through fitting test data to a general mass balance model under abiotic conditions. Styrene was used as the volatile organic compound and the BTF was packed with a mixture of pall rings and pumice. Operating temperature was set at 30°C and 50°C for mesophilic and thermophilic conditions, respectively. K L a values increased from 54 to 70 h -1 at 30°C and from 60 to 90 h -1 at 50°C, respectively, depending on the countercurrent gas to liquid flow ratio that varied in the range of 7.5-32. Evaluation of styrene mass transfer capacity (MTC) showed that liquid-phase mass transfer resistance decreased as the flow ratio increased at constant temperature. MTC also decreased with an increase in operating temperature. Both gas-liquid partition coefficient and K L a increased with increasing temperature; however the effect on gas-liquid partition coefficient was more significant and served to increase mass transfer limitations. Thermophilic biofiltration on the one hand increases mass transfer limitations, but on the other hand may enhance the biodegradation rate in favor of enhancing BTFs' performance.

  13. Triblock copolymer matrix-based capillary electrophoretic microdevice for high-resolution multiplex pathogen detection.

    PubMed

    Kim, Se Jin; Shin, Gi Won; Choi, Seok Jin; Hwang, Hee Sung; Jung, Gyoo Yeol; Seo, Tae Seok

    2010-03-01

    Rapid and simple analysis for the multiple target pathogens is critical for patient management. CE-SSCP analysis on a microchip provides high speed, high sensitivity, and a portable genetic analysis platform in molecular diagnostic fields. The capability of separating ssDNA molecules in a capillary electrophoretic microchannel with high resolution is a critical issue to perform the precise interpretation in the electropherogram. In this study, we explored the potential of poly(ethyleneoxide)-poly(propyleneoxide)-poly(ethyleneoxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymer as a sieving matrix for CE-SSCP analysis on a microdevice. To demonstrate the superior resolving power of PEO-PPO-PEO copolymers, 255-bp PCR amplicons obtained from 16S ribosomal RNA genes of four bacterial species, namely Proteus mirabilis, Haemophilus ducreyi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Neisseria meningitidis, were analyzed in the PEO-PPO-PEO matrix in comparison with 5% linear polyacrylamide and commercial GeneScan gel. Due to enhanced dynamic coating and sieving ability, PEO-PPO-PEO copolymer displayed fourfold enhancement of resolving power in the CE-SSCP to separate same-sized DNA molecules. Fivefold input of genomic DNA of P. aeruginosa and/or N. meningitidis produced proportionally increased corresponding amplicon peaks, enabling correct quantitative analysis in the pathogen detection. Besides the high-resolution sieving capability, a facile loading and replenishment of gel in the microchannel due to thermally reversible gelation property makes PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer an excellent matrix in the CE-SSCP analysis on the microdevice.

  14. Direct Synthesis of Polymer Nanotubes by Aqueous Dispersion Polymerization of a Cyclodextrin/Styrene Complex.

    PubMed

    Chen, Xi; Liu, Lei; Huo, Meng; Zeng, Min; Peng, Liao; Feng, Anchao; Wang, Xiaosong; Yuan, Jinying

    2017-12-22

    A one-step synthesis of nanotubes by RAFT dispersion polymerization of cyclodextrin/styrene (CD/St) complexes directly in water is presented. The resulted amphiphilic PEG-b-PS diblock copolymers self-assemble in situ into nanoparticles with various morphologies. Spheres, worms, lamellae, and nanotubes were controllably obtained. Because of the complexation, the swelling degree of polystyrene (PS) blocks by free St is limited, resulting in limited mobility of PS chains. Consequently, kinetically trapped lamellae and nanotubes were obtained instead of spherical vesicles. During the formation of nanotubes, small vesicles first formed at the ends of the tape-like lamellae, then grew and fused into nanotubes with a limited chain rearrangement. The introduction of a host-guest interaction based on CDs enables the aqueous dispersion polymerization of water-immiscible monomers, and produces kinetically trapped nanostructures, which could be a powerful technique for nanomaterials synthesis. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  15. Formation of integral asymmetric membranes of AB diblock and ABC triblock copolymers by phase inversion.

    PubMed

    Jung, Adina; Filiz, Volkan; Rangou, Sofia; Buhr, Kristian; Merten, Petra; Hahn, Janina; Clodt, Juliana; Abetz, Clarissa; Abetz, Volker

    2013-04-12

    The formation of integral asymmetric membranes from ABC triblock terpolymers by non-solvent-induced phase separation is shown. They are compared with the AB diblock copolymer precursors. Triblock terpolymers of polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO) with two compositions are investigated. The third block supports the formation of a membrane in a case, where the corresponding diblock copolymer does not form a good membrane. In addition, the hydrophilicity is increased by the third block and due to the hydroxyl group the possibility of post-functionalization is given. The morphologies are imaged by scanning electron microscopy. The influence of the PEO on the membrane properties is analyzed by water flux, retention, and dynamic contact angle measurements. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  16. Visible Light Photocatalysis of [2+2] Styrene Cycloadditions via Energy Transfer

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Zhan; Yoon, Tehshik P.

    2012-01-01

    Hip to be square: Styrenes participate in [2+2] cycloadditions upon irradiation with visible light in the presence of an iridium(III) polypyridyl complex. In contrast to previous reports of visible light photoredox catalysis, the mechanism of this process involves photosensitization by energy transfer and not electron transfer. PMID:22965321

  17. Styrene recovery from polystyrene by flash pyrolysis in a conical spouted bed reactor.

    PubMed

    Artetxe, Maite; Lopez, Gartzen; Amutio, Maider; Barbarias, Itsaso; Arregi, Aitor; Aguado, Roberto; Bilbao, Javier; Olazar, Martin

    2015-11-01

    Continuous pyrolysis of polystyrene has been studied in a conical spouted bed reactor with the main aim of enhancing styrene monomer recovery. Thermal degradation in a thermogravimetric analyser was conducted as a preliminary study in order to apply this information in the pyrolysis in the conical spouted bed reactor. The effects of temperature and gas flow rate in the conical spouted bed reactor on product yield and composition have been determined in the 450-600°C range by using a spouting velocity from 1.25 to 3.5 times the minimum one. Styrene yield is strongly influenced by both temperature and gas flow rate, with the maximum yield being 70.6 wt% at 500°C and a gas velocity twice the minimum one. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. 40 CFR 63.494 - Back-end process provisions-residual organic HAP and emission limitations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... produced by the emulsion process, polybutadiene rubber and styrene butadiene rubber produced by the... styrene butadiene rubber produced by the emulsion process: (i) A monthly weighted average of 0.40 kg... than a solution or emulsion process, polybutadiene rubber produced by any process other than a solution...

  19. ASSESSMENT OF STYRENE EMISSION CONTROLS FOR FRP/C AND BOAT BUILDING INDUSTRIES

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of an evaluation of several conventional and novel emission control technologies that have been used or could be used to treat styrene emissions from open molding processes in fiberglass-reinforced plastics/composites (FRP/C) and fiberglass boat building ...

  20. Synthesis and Characterization of Poly (styrene-co-butyl acrylate)/Silica Aerogel Nanocomposites by in situ AGET ATRP: Investigating Thermal Properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khezri, Khezrollah; Fazli, Yousef

    2017-10-01

    Hydrophilic silica aerogel nanoparticles surface was modified with hexamethyldisilazane. Then, the resultant modified nanoparticles were used in random copolymerization of styrene and butyl acrylate via activators generated by electron transfer for atom transfer radical polymerization. Conversion and molecular weight determinations were performed using gas and size exclusion chromatography respectively. Addition of modified nanoparticles by 3 wt% results in a decrease of conversion from 68 to 46 %. Molecular weight of copolymer chains decreases from 12,500 to 7,500 g.mol-1 by addition of 3 wt% modified nanoparticles; however, PDI values increase from 1.1 to 1.4. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy results indicate that the molar ratio of each monomer in the copolymer chains is approximately similar to the initial selected mole ratio of them. Increasing thermal stability of the nanocomposites is demonstrated by thermal gravimetric analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry also shows a decrease in glass transition temperature by increasing modified silica aerogel nanoparticles.

  1. Laser transmission welding of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) using a tailored high power diode-laser optical fiber coupled system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rodríguez-Vidal, E.; Quintana, I.; Etxarri, J.; Otaduy, D.; González, F.; Moreno, F.

    2012-06-01

    Laser transmission welding (LTW) of polymers is a direct bonding technique which is already used in different industrial applications sectors such as automobile, microfluidic, electronic and biomedicine. This technique offers several advantages over conventional methods, especially when a local deposition of energy and minimum thermal distortions are required. In LTW one of the polymeric materials needs to be transparent to the laser wavelength and the second part needs to be designed to be absorbed in IR spectrum. This report presents a study of laser weldability of ABS (acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene) filled with two different concentrations of carbon nanotubes (0.01% and 0.05% CNTs). These additives are used as infrared absorbing components in the laser welding process, affecting the thermal and optical properties of the material and, hence, the final quality of the weld seam. A tailored laser system has been designed to obtain high quality weld seams with widths between 0.4 and 1.0mm. It consists of two diode laser bars (50W per bar) coupled into an optical fiber using a non-imaging solution: equalization of the beam quality factor (M2) in the slow and fast axes by a pair of micro step-mirrors. The beam quality factor has been analyzed at different laser powers with the aim to guarantee a coupling efficiency to the multimode optical fiber. The power scaling is carried out by means of multiplexing polarization technique. The analysis of energy balance and beam quality is performed in two linked steps: first by means ray tracing simulations (ZEMAX®) and second, by validation. Quality of the weld seams is analyzed in terms of the process parameters (welding speed, laser power and clamping pressure) by visual and optical microscope inspections. The optimum laser power range for three different welding speeds is determinate meanwhile the clamping pressure is held constant. Additionally, the corresponding mechanical shear tests were carried out to analyze the

  2. Modeling and self-assembly behavior of PEG-PLA-PEG triblock copolymers in aqueous solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Xiaohan; Li, Suming; Coumes, Fanny; Darcos, Vincent; Lai Kee Him, Joséphine; Bron, Patrick

    2013-09-01

    A series of poly(ethylene glycol)-polylactide-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-PLA-PEG) triblock copolymers with symmetric or asymmetric chain structures were synthesized by combination of ring-opening polymerization and copper-catalyzed click chemistry. The resulting copolymers were used to prepare self-assembled aggregates by dialysis. Various architectures such as nanotubes, polymersomes and spherical micelles were observed from transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cryo-TEM and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements. The formation of diverse aggregates is explained by modeling from the angle of both geometry and thermodynamics. From the angle of geometry, a ``blob'' model based on the Daoud-Cotton model for star polymers is proposed to describe the aggregate structures and structural changes with copolymer composition and molar mass. In fact, the copolymer chains extend in aqueous medium to form single layer polymersomes to minimize the system's free energy if one of the two PEG blocks is short enough. The curvature of polymersomes is dependent on the chain structure of copolymers, especially on the length of PLA blocks. A constant branch number of aggregates (f) is thus required to preserve the morphology of polymersomes. Meanwhile, the aggregation number (Nagg) determined from the thermodynamics of self-assembly is roughly proportional to the total length of polymer chains. Comparing f to Nagg, the aggregates take the form of polymersomes if Nagg ~ f, and change to nanotubes if Nagg > f to conform to the limits from both curvature and aggregation number. The length of nanotubes is mainly determined by the difference between Nagg and f. However, the hollow structure becomes unstable when both PEG segments are too long, and the aggregates eventually collapse to yield spherical micelles. Therefore, this work gives new insights into the self-assembly behavior of PEG-PLA-PEG triblock copolymers in aqueous solution which present great interest for biomedical and

  3. Proteins detection by polymer optical fibers sensitised with overlayers of block and random copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El Sachat, Alexandros; Meristoudi, Anastasia; Markos, Christos; Pispas, Stergios; Riziotis, Christos

    2014-03-01

    A low cost and low complexity optical detection method of proteins is presented by employing a detection scheme based on electrostatic interactions, and implemented by sensitization of a polymer optical fibers' (POF) surface by thin overlayers of properly designed sensitive copolymer materials with predesigned charges. This method enables the fast detection of proteins having opposite charge to the overlayer, and also the effective discrimination of differently charged proteins like lysozyme (LYS) and bovine serum albumin (BSA). As sensitive materials the block and the random copolymers of the same monomers were employed, namely the block copolymer poly(styrene-b-2vinylpyridine) (PS-b- P2VP) and the corresponding random copolymer poly(styrene-r-2vinylpyridine) (PS-r-P2VP), of similar composition and molecular weights. Results show systematically different response between the block and the random copolymers, although of the same order of magnitude, drawing thus important conclusions on their applications' techno-economic aspects given that they have significantly different associated manufacturing method and costs. The use of the POF platform, in combination with those adaptable copolymer sensing materials could lead to efficient low cost bio-detection schemes.

  4. Liquid-liquid phase separation in dilute solutions of poly(styrene sulfonate) with multivalent cations: Phase diagrams, chain morphology, and impact of temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hansch, Markus; Hämisch, Benjamin; Schweins, Ralf; Prévost, Sylvain; Huber, Klaus

    2018-01-01

    The dilute solution behavior of sodium poly(styrene sulfonate) is studied in the presence of trivalent Al3+ and bivalent Ba2+ cations at various levels of excess NaCl. The study evaluates the phase behavior and the morphology of the polyelectrolyte chains with increasing extent of decoration with the Al3+ and Ba2+ cations and analyses the effect of temperature on these decorated chains. The phase behavior is presented in the form of the cation concentration versus the respective poly(styrene sulfonate) concentration, recorded at the onset of precipitation. Whereas poly(styrene sulfonate) with Al3+ exhibits a linear phase boundary, denoted as the "threshold line," which increases with increasing poly(styrene sulfonate) concentration, Ba2+ cations show a threshold line which is independent of the poly(styrene sulfonate) concentration. An additional re-entrant phase, at considerably higher cation content than those of the threshold lines, is observed with Al3+ cations but not with Ba2+ cations. The threshold line and the re-entrant phase boundary form parts of the liquid-liquid phase boundary observed at the limit of low polymer concentration. The dimensions of the polyelectrolyte chains shrink considerably while approaching the respective threshold lines on increase of the Al3+ and Ba2+ cation content. However, subtle differences occur between the morphological transformation induced by Al3+ and Ba2+. Most strikingly, coils decorated with Al3+ respond very differently to temperature variations than coils decorated with Ba2+ do. As the temperature increases, the poly(styrene sulfonate) chains decrease their size in the presence of Al3+ cations but increase in size in the presence of Ba2+ cations.

  5. Using tethered triblock copolymers to mediate the interaction between substrates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chern, Shyh-Shi; Zhulina, Ekaterina B.; Pickett, Galen T.; Balazs, Anna C.

    1998-04-01

    Using scaling analysis and a self-consistent field (SCF) theory, we compress two copolymer-coated surfaces and isolate conditions that yield multiple, distinct minima in the interaction profile. We focus on planar surfaces that are coated with ABC triblock copolymers. Tethered to the surface by the last monomer in the C block, the copolymers are grafted at relatively low densities. The surrounding solution is a poor solvent for both the A and C blocks, and is a good solvent for the B blocks. Through scaling theory, we pinpoint the parameters that yield two minima in the interaction profile. The SCF calculations reveal the changes in the morphology of the polymers as the layers are compressed. Through both studies, we determine how the morphological changes give rise to the observed surface interactions. The results provide guidelines for creating polymer-coated colloidal systems that can form two stable crystal structures. Such systems could be used for bistable, optical switches. The findings also yield a prescription for creating systems that exhibit additional minima in the free energy of interaction.

  6. 40 CFR 721.3700 - Fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene oxide adduct.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... phenol, ethylene oxide adduct. 721.3700 Section 721.3700 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL..., ethylene oxide adduct. (a) Chemical substances and significant new uses subject to reporting. (1) The chemical substance identified generically as fatty acid, ester with styrenated phenol, ethylene oxide...

  7. A two-stage combined trickle bed reactor/biofilter for treatment of styrene/acetone vapor mixtures.

    PubMed

    Vanek, Tomas; Halecky, Martin; Paca, Jan; Zapotocky, Lubos; Gelbicova, Tereza; Vadkertiova, Renata; Kozliak, Evguenii; Jones, Kim

    2015-01-01

    Performance of a two-stage biofiltration system was investigated for removal of styrene-acetone mixtures. High steady-state acetone loadings (above C(in)(Ac) = 0.5 g.m(-3) corresponding to the loadings > 34.5 g.m(-3).h(-1)) resulted in a significant inhibition of the system's performance in both acetone and styrene removal. This inhibition was shown to result from the acetone accumulation within the upstream trickle-bed bioreactor (TBR) circulating mineral medium, which was observed by direct chromatographic measurements. Placing a biofilter (BF) downstream to this TBR overcomes the inhibition as long as the biofilter has a sufficient bed height. A different kind of inhibition of styrene biodegradation was observed within the biofilter at very high acetone loadings (above C(in)(Ac) = 1.1 g.m(-3) or 76 g.m(-3).h(-1) loading). In addition to steady-state measurements, dynamic tests confirmed that the reactor overloading can be readily overcome, once the accumulated acetone in the TBR fluids is degraded. No sizable metabolite accumulation in the medium was observed for either TBR or BF. Analyses of the biodegradation activities of microbial isolates from the biofilm corroborated the trends observed for the two-stage biofiltration system, particularly the occurrence of an inhibition threshold by excess acetone.

  8. Exposure to styrene and chronic health effects: mortality and incidence of solid cancers in the Danish reinforced plastics industry.

    PubMed Central

    Kolstad, H A; Juel, K; Olsen, J; Lynge, E

    1995-01-01

    OBJECTIVES--To study the occurrence of non-malignant diseases and solid cancers in workers exposed to styrene in the Danish reinforced plastics industry. METHODS--All 36,610 workers of 386 reinforced plastics companies and 14,293 workers not exposed to styrene from similar industries were followed up from 1970 to 1990. This industry is characterised by simple exposure conditions, exposure to high concentrations of styrene, and a high proportion of small companies, and the exposure assessment was based on experts' classification on a company level. The mortality from non-malignant causes and the incidence of solid cancers were compared with the national rates. Poisson models were used for internal comparisons. RESULTS--A total of 3031 deaths and 1134 newly diagnosed cases of solid cancer were reported in the workers in the reinforced plastics industry. In companies where 50% or more of the workers produced reinforced plastics an increased mortality rate ratio (MRR) for degenerative disorders of the nervous system (multiple sclerosis, parkinsonism, and motor neurone disease; MRR 1.8, 16 cases, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.9-3.8) and an increased incidence rate ratio (IRR) for pancreatic cancer (IRR 2.2, 17 cases, 95% CI 1.1-4.5) was found. For both disease categories increased occurrence was also found among long term workers, workers of the 1960s (the period with the highest exposure to styrene), and workers with a latent period of more than 10 years after the start of employment. No other non-malignant diseases or solid cancers showed these patterns. CONCLUSION--The findings have to be interpreted with caution, due to the company based exposure assessment, but the possible association between exposures in the reinforced plastics industry, mainly styrene, and degenerative disorders of the nervous system and pancreatic cancer, deserves attention. PMID:7795754

  9. Aggregate morphologies of amphiphilic ABC triblock copolymer in dilute solution using self-consistent field theory.

    PubMed

    Wang, Rong; Tang, Ping; Qiu, Feng; Yang, Yuliang

    2005-09-15

    The complex microstructures of amphiphilic ABC linear triblock copolymers in which one of the end blocks is relatively short and hydrophilic, and the other two blocks B and C are hydrophobic in a dilute solution, have been investigated by the real-space implementation of self-consistent field theory (SCFT) in two dimensions (2D). In contrast to diblock copolymers in solution, the aggregation of triblock copolymers are more complicated due to the presence of the second hydrophobic blocks and, hence, big ranges of parameter space controlling the morphology. By tailoring the hydrophobic degree and its difference between the blocks B and C, the various shapes of vesicles, circlelike and linelike micelles possibly corresponding to spherelike, and rodlike micelles in 3D, and especially, peanutlike micelles not found in diblock copolymers are observed. The transition from vesicles to circlelike micelles occurs with increasing the hydrophobicity of the blocks B and C, while the transition from circlelike micelles to linelike micelles or from the mixture of micelles and vesicles to the long linelike micelles takes place when the repulsive interaction of the end hydrophobic block C is stronger than that of the middle hydrophobic block B. Furthermore, it is favorable for dispersion of the block copolymer in the solvent into aggregates when the repulsion of the solvent to the end hydrophobic block is larger than that of the solvent to the middle hydrophobic block. Especially when the bulk block copolymers are in a weak segregation regime, the competition between the microphase separation and macrophase separation exists and the large compound micelle-like aggregates are found due to the macrophase separation with increasing the hydrophobic degree of blocks B and C, which is absent in diblock copolymer solution. The simulation results successfully reproduce the existing experimental ones.

  10. Cross enyne metathesis of para-substituted styrenes: a kinetic study of enyne metathesis.

    PubMed

    Giessert, Anthony J; Diver, Steven T

    2005-01-20

    [Reaction: see text] The intermolecular enyne metathesis between alkynes and styrene derivatives was developed to study electronic effects in enyne metathesis. A Hammett plot for the overall reaction, catalyst initiation and vinyl carbene turnover was determined with the second generation Grubbs ruthenium carbene catalyst.

  11. 21 CFR 177.1040 - Acrylonitrile/styrene copoly-mer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... article Nitrogen content of copolymer Maximum extractable fractions at specified temperatures and times... Total nonvolatile extractives not to exceed 0.01 mg/in 2 surface area of the food contact article when... not exceed 0.001 mg/in 2 surface area of the food contact article when exposed to distilled water and...

  12. PALLADIUM-CATALYZED OXIDATION OF STYRENE AND ALKENES IN PRESENCE OF IONIC LIQUIDS (WACKER REACTION)

    EPA Science Inventory

    The use of ionic liquids in various synthetic transformations is gaining significance due to the enhanced reaction rates, potential for recycling and compatibility with various organic compounds and organometallic catalysts. Palladium-catalyzed oxidation of styrene and other alk...

  13. Triblock copolymer micelles as templates for preparation of mesoporous niobia thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Georgiev, R.; Christova, D.; Todorova, L.; Georgieva, B.; Vasileva, M.; Novakov, Ch; Babeva, T.

    2018-03-01

    The micelle formation of commercially available Pluronic PE 6800 (PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer) was studied by means of a dye solubilization method, and the solubility of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene in aqueous solutions of the copolymer with concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 20 % w/v was studied by recording the transmission and emission spectra of the solutions using UV-VIS and photoluminescence spectroscopy, respectively. Further, mesoporous Nb2O5 films using PE 6800 micelles templates were obtained through sol-gel using spin-coating; their morphology, structure and optical properties were studied by TEM, SAED and nonlinear fitting of reflectance measurements. The possible application of the films in optical sensing of vapors was demonstrated and discussed.

  14. Reversal of enantioselectivity in the hydroformylation of styrene with [2S,4S-BDPP]Pt(SnCl3)Cl at high temperature arises from a change in the enantioselective-determining step.

    PubMed

    Casey, Charles P; Martins, Susie C; Fagan, Maureen A

    2004-05-05

    Deuterioformylation of styrene catalyzed by [(2S,4S)-BDPP]Pt(SnCl(3))Cl at 39 degrees C gave 3-phenylpropanal (3) and 2-phenylpropanal (2) (n:i = 1.8, 71% ee (S)-2) with deuterium only beta to the aldehyde carbonyl and in the formyl group. Small amounts of deuterium were also found in the internal (2.8%), cis terminal (1.4%), and trans terminal (1.3%) vinyl positions of the recovered styrene. Deuterioformylation of styrene at 98 degrees C gave 3- (3) and 2-phenylpropanal (2) (n:i = 2.3, 10% ee (R)-2) with deuterium both alpha and beta to the aldehyde carbonyl and in the formyl group. Deuterium was also found in the internal (20%), cis terminal (12%), and trans terminal (12%) vinyl positions of the recovered styrene. These deuterioformylation results establish that platinum hydride addition to styrene is largely irreversible at 39 degrees C but reversible at 98 degrees C. Hydroformylation of (E)- and (Z)-beta-deuteriostyrene at 40 degrees C, followed by oxidation of the aldehydes to acids, and subsequent derivitization to the (S)-mandelate esters confirmed that 84% of 2-phenylpropanal (2) arises from platinum hydride addition to the si-face of styrene, while 73% of 3-phenylpropanal (3) arises from platinum hydride addition to the re-face of styrene. At 100 degrees C, the effect of variable H(2) and CO pressure on n:i, % ee, and TOF of hydroformylation of styrene was investigated. The results are consistent with enantioselectivity not being fully determined until the final hydrogenolysis of a platinum acyl intermediate.

  15. EVALUATION OF THE POLYAD FB AIR PURIFICATION AND SOLVENT RECOVERY PROCESS FOR STYRENE REMOVAL

    EPA Science Inventory

    The report gives results of a study evaluating the Polyad fluidized-bed (FB) process for controlling styrene emissions at a representative fiberglass shower stall and bath tub manufacturing plan*t. he process was evaluated using a transport able unit supplied by Weatherly, Inc., ...

  16. Mesoscopic Simulations of Adsorption and Association of PEO-PPO-PEO Triblock Copolymers on a Hydrophobic Surface: From Mushroom Hemisphere to Rectangle Brush.

    PubMed

    Song, Xianyu; Zhao, Shuangliang; Fang, Shenwen; Ma, Yongzhang; Duan, Ming

    2016-11-08

    The dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) method is used to investigate the adsorption behavior of PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymers at the liquid/solid interface. The effect of molecular architecture on the self-assembled monolayer adsorption of PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymers on hydrophobic surfaces is elucidated by the adsorption process, film properties, and adsorption morphologies. The adsorption thicknesses on hydrophobic surfaces and the diffusion coefficient as well as the aggregation number of Pluronic copolymers in aqueous solution observed in our simulations agree well with previous experimental and numerical observations. The radial distribution function revealed that the ability of self-assembly on hydrophobic surfaces is P123 > P84 > L64 > P105 > F127, which increased with the EO ratio of the Pluronic copolymers. Moreover, the shape parameter and the degree of anisotropy increase with increasing molecular weight and mole ratio of PO of the Pluronic copolymers. Depending on the conformation of different Pluronic copolymers, the morphology transition of three regimes on hydrophobic surfaces is present: mushroom or hemisphere, progressively semiellipsoid, and rectangle brush regimes induced by decreasing molecular weight and mole ratio of EO of Pluronic copolymers.

  17. Long-term operation of submerged membrane bioreactor (MBR) for the treatment of synthetic wastewater containing styrene as volatile organic compound (VOC): Effect of hydraulic retention time (HRT).

    PubMed

    Fallah, N; Bonakdarpour, B; Nasernejad, B; Alavi Moghadam, M R

    2010-06-15

    In this study, the membrane bioreactor (MBR) was utilized to remove styrene from a synthetic wastewater having a chemical oxygen demand (COD) and styrene concentration of 1500 mg/L and 50 mg/L, respectively. At two hydraulic retention times (HRTs) of 24 h and 18 h, the MBR was operated for a period in excess of 100 days. The HRT effects were studied and it was found out that the removal efficiency of COD and styrene for both HRTs was consistently higher than 99%. Unlike conventional activated sludge processes (CASPs), no styrene was detected in the exhaust air, which meant that biodegradation was the major styrene removal mechanism at both HRTs. The transmembrane pressure (TMP) profile during the operation of the MBR showed a fairly low and constant TMP up to day 70, after which, the TMP showed a dramatic rise, as a result of the occurrence of severe membrane fouling. It was thought that an increase in styrene loading rate, when HRT was reduced to 18 h, resulted in the release of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) from the bacterial cells, which in turn was responsible for the rise in soluble microbial product (SMP) and sludge deflocculation. The severe fouling observed during operation of MBR at HRT of 18 h was attributed to the rise in SMP concentrations and decrease in mean floc size and increase in the proportion of small particles in the activated sludge. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Surface monolayers of well-defined amphiphilic block copolymer composed of poly(acrylic acid) or poly(oxyethylene) and poly(styrene). Interpolymer complexation at the air-water interface

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Niwa, Masazo; Hayashi, Takehiro; Higashi, Nobuyuki

    1990-01-01

    Amphiphilic block polymers (2,3) composed of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) or poly(oxyethylene) (POE) and chain length controlled poly(styrene) (PSt) have been prepared by using a catalytic system of tribromomethyl-terminated oligomer and manganese carbonyl. All the amphiphilic materials formed well-behaved surface monolayers, and the II-A curves for them expanded systematically with an increase of the PSt chain length.

  19. 21 CFR 177.1030 - Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene/methyl methacrylate copolymer.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-04-01

    ... conditions of use C, D, E, F, and G described in table 2 of § 176.170(c) of this chapter with a high... inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of... and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call...

  20. The role of CO 2 as a soft oxidant for dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene to styrene over a high-surface-area ceria catalyst

    DOE PAGES

    Zhang, Li; Wu, Zili; Nelson, Nicholas; ...

    2015-09-22

    Catalytic performance and the nature of surface adsorbates were investigated for high-surface-area ceria during ethylbenzene oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) reaction using CO2 as a soft oxidant. A template assisted method was used to synthesize the high-surface-area ceria. The interactions between ethylbenzene, styrene and CO2 on the surface of ceria and the role of CO2 for the ethylbenzene ODH reaction have been investigated in detail by using activity test, in situ Diffuse Reflectance Infrared and Raman spectroscopy. Not only did CO2 as an oxidant favor the higher yield of styrene, but it also inhibited the deposition of coke during the ethylbenzene ODHmore » reaction. Ethylbenzene ODH reaction over ceria followed a two-step pathway: Ethylbenzene is first dehydrogenated to styrene with H2 formed simultaneously, and then CO2 reacts with H2 via the reverse water gas shift. The styrene produced can easily polymerize to form polystyrene, a key intermediate for coke formation. In the absence of CO2, the polystyrene transforms into graphite-like coke at temperatures above 500 °C, which leads to catalyst deactivation. While in the presence of CO2, the coke deposition can be effectively removed via oxidation with CO2.« less

  1. Biomarkers of early genotoxicity and oxidative stress for occupational risk assessment of exposure to styrene in the fibreglass reinforced plastic industry.

    PubMed

    Cavallo, Delia; Tranfo, Giovanna; Ursini, Cinzia Lucia; Fresegna, Anna Maria; Ciervo, Aureliano; Maiello, Raffaele; Paci, Enrico; Pigini, Daniela; Gherardi, Monica; Gatto, Maria Pia; Buresti, Giuliana; Iavicoli, Sergio

    2018-06-10

    This study aimed to identify sensitive and not-invasive biomarkers of early genotoxic/oxidative effect for exposure to styrene in the fibreglass reinforced plastic manufacture. We studied 11 workers of a plastic manufacture using open molding process (A), 16 workers of a manufacture using closed process (B) and 12 controls. We evaluated geno/cytotoxic effects on buccal cells by Buccal Micronucleus Cytome (BMCyt) assay and genotoxic/oxidative effects on lymphocytes by Fpg-comet test. On A workers we also evaluated urinary 8oxoGua, 8oxodGuo and 8oxoGuo to investigate oxidative stress. Personal inhalation exposure to styrene was monitored by passive air sampling and GC/MS. Biological monitoring included urinary metabolites mandelic acid (MA) and phenylglyoxylic acid (PGA). The findings show higher styrene exposure, urinary MA + PGA levels and micronucleus frequency in manufacture A. Higher buccal karyolytic cell frequency vs controls were found in both exposed populations. We found in exposed workers, no induction of direct DNA damage but oxidative DNA damage. Fpg-comet assay and urinary oxidized guanine seem to be sensitive biomarkers of oxidative stress and BMCyt assay a good-not invasive biomarker of cyto-genotoxicity at target organ. The study, although limited by the small number of studied subjects, shows the usefulness of used biomarkers in risk assessment of styrene-exposed workers. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Polydiacetylene/triblock copolymer nanoblend applied as a sensor for micellar casein: A thermodynamic approach.

    PubMed

    de Souza, Luana Cypriano; de Paula Rezende, Jaqueline; Pires, Ana Clarissa dos Santos; da Silva, Luis Henrique Mendes; da Silva, Maria do Carmo Hespanhol; Castrillon, Elkin Dario Castellon; de Andrade, Nélio José

    2016-04-15

    Polydiacetylene (PDA) and triblock copolymer nanoblends were synthesized to detect micellar casein (MC), the main milk protein and an indicator of milk quality. UV-Vis spectrum showed that MC induced blue-to-red transition in nanoblends. When nanoblends and MC were separated by dialysis membrane colorimetric response (CR) was similar, whereas a remarkable CR reduction was noticed after addition of dialyzed-MC, suggesting that small molecules present in MC (salts) caused PDA color change. Interaction enthalpy variation between nanoblends and MC showed an abrupt increase that coincided with MC concentration when colorimetric transition occurred. Copolymer hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance and presence of other molecules in the system affected nanoblends CR. MC salts were found to interact with nanoblends leading to color changes. MC concentration, MC salt release, copolymer hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance, and presence of other molecules in the system affected responses of the sensors. These results contribute to future applications of PDA/copolymer nanosensors to dairy models. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Self-assembly behavior of poly(fluorenyl styrene)-block-poly(2-vinyl pyridine) and their blends with single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mezzenga, Raffaele; Li, Chaoxu; Hsu, Jung-Ching; Chen, Wen-Chang; Sugiyama, Kenji; Hirao, Akira

    2010-03-01

    We describe a supramolecular strategy to disperse carbon nanotubes in block copolymer matrices. To achieve the desired functions and morphologies, comb-type architectures in which one and two fluorene units attached on the styrene ring of polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinyl pyridine) were studied. Depending on the pendant fluorene units, the block ratio, the casting solvent and thermal annealing history, multiple morphologies were found. The phase diagram, compared to PS-b-P2VP, was interpreted in terms of the conformational asymmetry arising from grafting of fluorene units of variable lengths. Hydrogen bonds between COOH-SWCNT and P2VP favor miscibility of SWCNT within P2VP domains and the blending of these two components is reflected both on the final morphologies and on the electron conductivity of the blends.

  4. Self-Assembly and Responsiveness of Polypeptide-Based Star and Triblock Copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Savin, Daniel

    This study involves the bottom-up design and tunability of responsive, peptide-based block polymers. The self-assembly of amphiphilic block polymers is dictated primarily by the balance between the hydrophobic core volume and the hydrophilic corona. In these studies, amphiphilic triblock and star copolymers containing poly(lysine) (PK), poly(leucine) (PL) and poly(glutamic acid) (PE) were synthesized and their solution properties studied using dynamic light scattering, circular dichroism spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The peptide block in these structures can serve to introduce pH responsiveness (in the case of PK and PE), or can facilitate the formation of elongated or kinetically-trapped structures (in the case of PL.) This talk will present some recent studies in solution morphology transitions that occur in these materials under varying solution conditions. As the topological complexity of the polymers increases from diblock to linear triblock or star polymers, the solution morphology and response becomes much more complex. We present a systematic series of structures, with increasing complexity, that have applications as passive and active delivery vehicles, hydrogels, and responsive viscosity modifiers. NSF CHE-1539347.

  5. Engineering of a Stable Whole-Cell Biocatalyst Capable of (S)-Styrene Oxide Formation for Continuous Two-Liquid-Phase Applications

    PubMed Central

    Panke, Sven; de Lorenzo, Víctor; Kaiser, Arnë; Witholt, Bernard; Wubbolts, Marcel G.

    1999-01-01

    Recombinant strains of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 carrying genetic expression cassettes with xylene oxygenase- and styrene monooxygenase-encoding genes on their chromosomes could be induced in shaking-flask experiments to specific activities that rivaled those of multicopy-plasmid-based Escherichia coli recombinants. Such strains maintained the introduced styrene oxidation activity in continuous two-liquid-phase cultures for at least 100 generations, although at a lower level than in the shaking-flask experiments. The data suggest that placement of target genes on the chromosome might be a suitable route for the construction of segregationally stable and highly active whole-cell biocatalysts. PMID:10584030

  6. 3D-Printed Millimeter Wave Structures

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-03-14

    demonstrates the resolution of the printer with a 10 micron nozzle. Figure 2: Measured loss tangent of SEBS and SBS samples. 3D - Printed Millimeter... 3D printing of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) and styrene ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS) is used to demonstrate the feasibility of 3D - printed ...Additionally, a dielectric lens is printed which improves the antenna gain of an open-ended WR-28 waveguide from 7 to 8.5 dBi. Keywords: 3D printing

  7. Electric-Field-Induced Alignment of Block Copolymer/Nanoparticle Blends

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liedel, Clemens; Schindler, Kerstin; Pavan, Mariela J.

    External electric fi elds readily align birefringent block-copolymer mesophases. In this study the effect of gold nanoparticles on the electric-fi eld-induced alignment of a lamellae-forming polystyrene- block -poly(2-vinylpyridine) copolymer is assessed. Nanoparticles are homogeneously dispersed in the styrenic phase and promote the quantitative alignment of lamellar domains by substantially lowering the critical field strength above which alignment proceeds. The results suggest that the electric-fi eldassisted alignment of nanostructured block copolymer/nanoparticle composites may offer a simple way to greatly mitigate structural and orientational defects of such fi lms under benign experimental conditions.

  8. Thermally Switchable Thin Films of an ABC Triblock Copolymer of Poly(n-butyl methacrylate)-poly(methyl methacrylate)-poly(2-fluoroethyl methacrylate)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhang, Shanju; Liu, Zhan; Bucknall, David G.

    2011-01-01

    The thermo-responsive behavior of polymer films consisting of novel linear triblock copolymers of poly(n-butyl methacrylate)-poly(methyl methacrylate)-poly(2-fluoroethyl methacrylate) (PnBuMA-PMMA-P2FEMA) are reported using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), atomic forcing microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contacting angle (CA) measurements. The surface morphology, wettability and chemical structure of thin films of these triblock copolymers on silicon wafers as a function of temperature have been investigated. It has been shown that the wettability of the films is thermally switchable. Detailed structural analysis shows that thermo-responsive surface composition changes are produced. The underlying mechanism of the thermoresponsive behavior is discussed.

  9. Investigation of the use of recycled polymer-modified asphalt in asphaltic concrete pavements.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2004-06-30

    This report presents issues associated with recycling polymer modified asphalt cements (PMACs), particularly blending aged PMAC with new PMAC. A styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) PMAC was selected and graded using the Superpave Performance Grading (PG)...

  10. Nanoscale silicon substrate patterns from self-assembly of cylinder forming poly(styrene)-block-poly(dimethylsiloxane) block copolymer on silane functionalized surfaces.

    PubMed

    Borah, Dipu; Cummins, Cian; Rasappa, Sozaraj; Watson, Scott M D; Pike, Andrew R; Horrocks, Benjamin R; Fulton, David A; Houlton, Andrew; Liontos, George; Ntetsikas, Konstantinos; Avgeropoulos, Apostolos; Morris, Michael A

    2017-01-27

    Poly(styrene)-block-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PS-b-PDMS) is an excellent block copolymer (BCP) system for self-assembly and inorganic template fabrication because of its high Flory-Huggins parameter (χ ∼ 0.26) at room temperature in comparison to other BCPs, and high selective etch contrast between PS and PDMS block for nanopatterning. In this work, self-assembly in PS-b-PDMS BCP is achieved by combining hydroxyl-terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS-OH) brush surfaces with solvent vapor annealing. As an alternative to standard brush chemistry, we report a simple method based on the use of surfaces functionalized with silane-based self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). A solution-based approach to SAM formation was adopted in this investigation. The influence of the SAM-modified surfaces upon BCP films was compared with polymer brush-based surfaces. The cylinder forming PS-b-PDMS BCP and PDMS-OH polymer brush were synthesized by sequential living anionic polymerization. It was observed that silane SAMs provided the appropriate surface chemistry which, when combined with solvent annealing, led to microphase segregation in the BCP. It was also demonstrated that orientation of the PDMS cylinders may be controlled by judicious choice of the appropriate silane. The PDMS patterns were successfully used as an on-chip etch mask to transfer the BCP pattern to underlying silicon substrate with sub-25 nm silicon nanoscale features. This alternative SAM/BCP approach to nanopattern formation shows promising results, pertinent in the field of nanotechnology, and with much potential for application, such as in the fabrication of nanoimprint lithography stamps, nanofluidic devices or in narrow and multilevel interconnected lines.

  11. Nanoscale silicon substrate patterns from self-assembly of cylinder forming poly(styrene)-block-poly(dimethylsiloxane) block copolymer on silane functionalized surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Borah, Dipu; Cummins, Cian; Rasappa, Sozaraj; Watson, Scott M. D.; Pike, Andrew R.; Horrocks, Benjamin R.; Fulton, David A.; Houlton, Andrew; Liontos, George; Ntetsikas, Konstantinos; Avgeropoulos, Apostolos; Morris, Michael A.

    2017-01-01

    Poly(styrene)-block-poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PS-b-PDMS) is an excellent block copolymer (BCP) system for self-assembly and inorganic template fabrication because of its high Flory-Huggins parameter (χ ˜ 0.26) at room temperature in comparison to other BCPs, and high selective etch contrast between PS and PDMS block for nanopatterning. In this work, self-assembly in PS-b-PDMS BCP is achieved by combining hydroxyl-terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS-OH) brush surfaces with solvent vapor annealing. As an alternative to standard brush chemistry, we report a simple method based on the use of surfaces functionalized with silane-based self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). A solution-based approach to SAM formation was adopted in this investigation. The influence of the SAM-modified surfaces upon BCP films was compared with polymer brush-based surfaces. The cylinder forming PS-b-PDMS BCP and PDMS-OH polymer brush were synthesized by sequential living anionic polymerization. It was observed that silane SAMs provided the appropriate surface chemistry which, when combined with solvent annealing, led to microphase segregation in the BCP. It was also demonstrated that orientation of the PDMS cylinders may be controlled by judicious choice of the appropriate silane. The PDMS patterns were successfully used as an on-chip etch mask to transfer the BCP pattern to underlying silicon substrate with sub-25 nm silicon nanoscale features. This alternative SAM/BCP approach to nanopattern formation shows promising results, pertinent in the field of nanotechnology, and with much potential for application, such as in the fabrication of nanoimprint lithography stamps, nanofluidic devices or in narrow and multilevel interconnected lines.

  12. PEO-PPO-PEO Tri-Block Copolymers for Gene Delivery Applications in Human Regenerative Medicine—An Overview

    PubMed Central

    Cucchiarini, Magali

    2018-01-01

    Lineal (poloxamers or Pluronic®) or X-shaped (poloxamines or Tetronic®) amphiphilic tri-block copolymers of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(propylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) have been broadly explored for controlled drug delivery in different regenerative medicine approaches. The ability of these copolymers to self-assemble as micelles and to undergo sol-to-gel transitions upon heating has endowed the denomination of “smart” or “intelligent” systems. The use of PEO-PPO-PEO copolymers as gene delivery systems is a powerful emerging strategy to improve the performance of classical gene transfer vectors. This review summarizes the state of art of the application of PEO-PPO-PEO copolymers in both nonviral and viral gene transfer approaches and their potential as gene delivery systems in different regenerative medicine approaches. PMID:29518011

  13. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sakurada, I.; Okada, T.; Hutakeyama, S.

    Experiments on radioinduced graft copolymerization of binary mixtures such as butadiene -- styrene, butadiene-acrylonitrile, styrene-- acrylonitrile and some other systems onto cellulose and PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) fibers were carried out with the use of methanol as a solvent. A very marked maximum of graft was observed in every case at a certain composition of the comonomer mixture. It seemed that such a marked maximum was closely connected with popcorn polymerization for the case of butadiene-- styrene, but popcorn polymerization was not a necessary condition for the appearance of the maximum. Only a combined effect of swelling of the gel, formationmore » of radicals in the gel, homocopolymerization, and some other unknown factors is considered likely to lead to a very high degree of grafting. (auth)« less

  14. FRP MODEL - VERSION 1.0 FOR ESTIMATING STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM FIBER-REINFORCED PLASTICS FABRICATION PROCESSES

    EPA Science Inventory

    This software estimates styrene emissions from the manufacture of fiber-reinforced plastics/composite (FRP/C) products. In using the model, the user first chooses the appropriate process: gel coating, resin sprayup, hand layup, etc. Choosing a process will cause the 'baseline' in...

  15. Salt-Induced Block Copolymer Micelles as Nanoreactors for the Formation of CdS Nanoparticles

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2001-11-01

    or corona of micelles is presented. Poly(styrene-block-2-vinylpyridine) ( PS - b - P2VP ) and cadmium ions form aggregates of single micelles, called...ratio and block copolymer concentration in THF etc. EXPERIMENTAL DETAILS The synthesis of the PS - b - P2VP block copolymer was performed using sequential...nanoparticles: PS - b - P2VP block copolymer was dissolved in THF at different concentrations under vigorous stirring for 1 hour. Cd(Ac)2.2H 20 dissolved in a

  16. Adsorption and association of a symmetric PEO-PPO-PEO triblock copolymer on polypropylene, polyethylene, and cellulose surfaces.

    PubMed

    Li, Yan; Liu, Hongyi; Song, Junlong; Rojas, Orlando J; Hinestroza, Juan P

    2011-07-01

    The association of a symmetric polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene (PEO(19)-PPO(29)-PEO(19)) triblock copolymer adsorbed from aqueous solutions onto polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and cellulose surfaces was probed using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Significant morphological differences between the polyolefin substrates (PP and PE) and the cellulose surfaces were observed after immersion of the films in the PEO(19)-PPO(29)-PEO(19) solutions. When the samples were scanned, while immersed in solutions of the triblock copolymer, it was revealed that the structures adsorbed on the polyolefin surfaces were smoothed by the adsorbed PEO(19)-PPO(29)-PEO(19). In contrast, those structures on the hydrophilic cellulose surfaces were sharpened. These observations were related to the roughness of the substrate and the energy of interaction between the surfaces and the PEO and PPO polymer segments. The interaction energy between each of the blocks and the surface was calculated using molecular dynamics simulations. It is speculated that the associative structures amply reported in aqueous solution at concentrations above the critical micelle concentration, CMC, are not necessarily preserved upon adsorption; instead, it appears that molecular arrangements of the anchor-buoy type and hemimicelles prevail. The reported data suggests that the roughness of the surface, as well as its degree of hydrophobicity, have a large influence on the nature of the resulting adsorbed layer. The reported observations are valuable in explaining the behavior of finishing additives and lubricants commonly used in textile and fiber processing, as well as the effect of the morphology of the boundary layers on friction and wear, especially in the case of symmetric triblock copolymers, which are commonly used as antifriction, antiwear additives.

  17. Ion Conduction in Perfectly Aligned Block Copolymer-Ionic Liquid Mixtures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choi, Jae-Hong; Elabd, Yossef A.; Winey, Karen I.

    2011-03-01

    Our earlier work to correlate the transport measurements in diblock copolymer-ionic liquid mixtures was limited by our bulk samples that have only partial alignment. Here, thin films with perfect alignment of lamellar microdomains from mixtures of a poly(methyl methacrylate- b -styrene) diblock copolymer and an ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, have been studied. The morphologies will be characterized by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy. Ion conduction will be presented within and through the thin film.

  18. 21 CFR 177.1635 - Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p... Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene). Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methylstyrene) identified in this section may be safely used as components of articles...

  19. 21 CFR 177.1635 - Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p... Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene). Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methylstyrene) identified in this section may be safely used as components of articles...

  20. Role of CO2 in the oxy-dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene to styrene on the CeO2(111) surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fan, Hong-Xia; Feng, Jie; Li, Wen-Ying; Li, Xiao-Hong; Wiltowski, Tomasz; Ge, Qing-Feng

    2018-01-01

    The role of CO2 in the ethylbenzene oxy-dehydrogenation to styrene on the CeO2(111) surface was thoroughly investigated by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Results show that the first Csbnd H bond of ethylbenzene is activated via the oxo-insertion with a barrier of 1.70 eV, resulting in a 2-phenylethyl species and an H atom adsorbed on two-adjacent-lattice oxygen. The H adatom forms a hydroxyl-like species (denoted as O*H). The subsequent dehydrogenation to styrene can be assisted by either the next lattice oxygen (pathway R1) or the O*H species (pathway R2). The two pathways have almost the same activation energy (0.84 eV for R1 and 0.85 eV for R2), forming a new O*H and desorbing a H2O molecule while leaving an oxygen vacancy on the surface, respectively. In the presence of CO2, it will react with O*H through the reverse water gas shift reaction with an activation barrier of 0.98 eV and reaction energy of 0.30 eV. The reverse water gas shift reaction helps to clear the H adatoms from the lattice oxygen, thereby competing with styrene formation via pathway R2. However, the activation energy following the reverse water gas shift mechanism is 0.13 eV higher than that of styrene formation via pathway R2. Therefore, the formation of oxygen vacancy cannot be inhibited, while CO2 can react with the surface oxygen vacancy to produce CO with a high activation energy of 2.10 eV.

  1. Apertureless near-field vibrational imaging of block-copolymer nanostructures with ultrahigh spatial resolution.

    PubMed

    Raschke, Markus B; Molina, Leopoldo; Elsaesser, Thomas; Kim, Dong Ha; Knoll, Wolfgang; Hinrichs, Karsten

    2005-10-14

    Nanodomains formed by microphase separation in thin films of the diblock copolymers poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) and poly(styrene-b-ethyleneoxide) (PS-b-PEO) were imaged by means of infrared scattering-type near-field microscopy. When probing at 3.39 mum (2950 cm(-1)), contrast is obtained due to spectral differences between the C--H stretching vibrational resonances of the respective polymer constituents. An all-optical spatial resolution better than 10 nm was achieved, which corresponds to a sensitivity of just several thousand C--H groups facilitated by the local-field enhancement at the sharp metallic probe tips. The results demonstrate that infrared spectroscopy with access to intramolecular dimensions is within reach.

  2. 40 CFR 721.6920 - Butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Butyl acrylate, polymer with... NEW USES OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES Significant New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.6920 Butyl... butyl acrylate, polymer with substituted methyl styrene, methyl methacrylate, and substituted silane...

  3. Field test method to determine presence and quantity of modifiers in liquid asphalt : [summary].

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-05-01

    Approximately five million tons of asphalt mix are produced each year for the Florida : Department of Transportation (FDOT), of which 60% is modified with styrene butadiene : styrene (SBS) polymer and/or ground tire rubber (GTR). Asphalt binders are ...

  4. Formation of secondary aerosols from the ozonolysis of styrene: Effect of SO2 and H2O

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Díaz-de-Mera, Yolanda; Aranda, Alfonso; Martínez, Ernesto; Rodríguez, Ana Angustias; Rodríguez, Diana; Rodríguez, Ana

    2017-12-01

    In this work we report the study of the ozonolysis of styrene and the reaction conditions leading to the formation of secondary aerosols. The reactions have been carried out in a Teflon chamber filled with synthetic air mixtures at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. We have found that the ozonolysis of styrene in the presence of low concentrations of SO2 readily produces new particles under concentrations of reactants lower than those required in experiments in the absence of SO2. Thus, nucleation events occur at concentrations around (5.6 ± 1.7) × 108molecule cm-3 (errors are 2σ±20%) and SO2 is consumed during the experiments. The reaction of the Criegee intermediates with SO2 to produce SO3 and then H2SO4 may explain (together with OH reactions' contribution) the high capacity of styrene to produce particulate matter in polluted atmospheres. The formation of secondary aerosols in the smog chamber is inhibited under high H2O concentrations. So, the potential formation of secondary aerosols under atmospheric conditions depends on the concentration of SO2 and relative humidity, with a water to SO2 rate constants ratio kH2O/kSO2 = (2.8 ± 0.7) × 10-5 (errors are 2σ±20%).

  5. Enantioconvergent production of (R)-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol from styrene oxide by combining the Solanum tuberosum and an evolved Agrobacterium radiobacter AD1 epoxide hydrolases.

    PubMed

    Cao, Li; Lee, Jintae; Chen, Wilfred; Wood, Thomas K

    2006-06-20

    Soluble epoxide hydrolase (EH) from the potato Solanum tuberosum and an evolved EH of the bacterium Agrobacterium radiobacter AD1, EchA-I219F, were purified for the enantioconvergent hydrolysis of racemic styrene oxide into the single product (R)-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, which is an important intermediate for pharmaceuticals. EchA-I219F has enhanced enantioselectivity (enantiomeric ratio of 91 based on products) for converting (R)-styrene oxide to (R)-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol (2.0 +/- 0.2 micromol/min/mg), and the potato EH converts (S)-styrene oxide primarily to the same enantiomer, (R)-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol (22 +/- 1 micromol/min/mg), with an enantiomeric ratio of 40 +/- 17 (based on substrates). By mixing these two purified enzymes, inexpensive racemic styrene oxide (5 mM) was converted at 100% yield to 98% enantiomeric excess (R)-1-phenyl-1,2-ethanediol at 4.7 +/- 0.7 micromol/min/mg. Hence, at least 99% of substrate is converted into a single stereospecific product at a rapid rate. 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Boundary layers of aqueous surfactant and block copolymer solutions against hydrophobic and hydrophilic solid surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Steitz, Roland; Schemmel, Sebastian; Shi, Hongwei; Findenegg, Gerhard H.

    2005-03-01

    The boundary layer of aqueous surfactants and amphiphilic triblock copolymers against flat solid surfaces of different degrees of hydrophobicity was investigated by neutron reflectometry (NR), grazing incidence small angle neutron scattering (GISANS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Solid substrates of different hydrophobicities were prepared by appropriate surface treatment or by coating silicon wafers with polymer films of different chemical natures. For substrates coated with thin films (20-30 nm) of deuterated poly(styrene) (water contact angle \\theta_{\\mathrm {w}} \\approx 90^\\circ ), neutron reflectivity measurements on the polymer/water interface revealed a water depleted liquid boundary layer of 2-3 nm thickness and a density about 90% of the bulk water density. No pronounced depletion layer was found at the interface of water against a less hydrophobic polyelectrolyte coating (\\theta_{\\mathrm {w}} \\approx 63^\\circ ). It is believed that the observed depletion layer at the hydrophobic polymer/water interface is a precursor of the nanobubbles which have been observed by AFM at this interface. Decoration of the polymer coatings by adsorbed layers of nonionic CmEn surfactants improves their wettability by the aqueous phase at surfactant concentrations well below the critical micellar concentration (CMC) of the surfactant. Here, GISANS experiments conducted on the system SiO2/C8E4/D2O reveal that there is no preferred lateral organization of the C8E4 adsorption layers. For amphiphilic triblock copolymers (PEO-PPO-PEO) it is found that under equilibrium conditions they form solvent-swollen brushes both at the air/water and the solid/water interface. In the latter case, the brushes transform to uniform, dense layers after extensive rinsing with water and subsequent solvent evaporation. The primary adsorption layers maintain properties of the precursor brushes. In particular, their thickness scales with the number of ethylene oxide units (EO) of the block

  7. 21 CFR 177.1635 - Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p... Components of Single and Repeated Use Food Contact Surfaces § 177.1635 Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methyl-styrene). Poly(p-methylstyrene) and rubber-modified poly(p-methylstyrene) identified...

  8. Fracture behavior of block copolymer and graphene nanoplatelet modified epoxy and fiber reinforced/epoxy polymer composites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kamar, Nicholas T.

    Glass and carbon fiber reinforced/epoxy polymer composites (GFRPs and CFRPs) have high strength-to-weight and stiffness-to-weight ratios. Thus, GFRPs and CFRPs are used to lightweight aircraft, marine and ground vehicles to reduce transportation energy utilization and cost. However, GFRP and CFRP matrices have a low resistance to crack initiation and propagation; i.e. they have low fracture toughness. Current methods to increase fracture toughness of epoxy and corresponding GFRP and CFRPs often reduce composite mechanical and thermomechanical properties. With the advent of nanotechnology, new methods to improve the fracture toughness and impact properties of composites are now available. The goal of this research is to identify the fracture behavior and toughening mechanisms of nanoparticle modified epoxy, GFRPs and CFRPs utilizing the triblock copolymer poly(styrene)-block-poly(butadiene)-block-poly(methylmethacrylate) (SBM) and graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) as toughening agents. The triblock copolymer SBM was used to toughen the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA) resin cured with m-phenylenediamine (mPDA) and corresponding AS4-12k CFRPs. SBM self assembled in epoxy to form nanostructured domains leading to larger increases in fracture toughness, KQ (MPa*m 1/2) than the traditional, phase separating carboxyl-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile (CTBN) rubber. Additionally, SBM increased the mode-I fracture toughness, GIc (J/m2) of CFRPs without corresponding reductions in composite three-point flexural properties and glass transition temperature (Tg). Fractography of SBM modified epoxy and CFRPs via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that sub 100 nm spherical micelles cavitated to induce void growth and matrix shear yielding toughening mechanisms. Furthermore, SBM did not suppress epoxy Tg, while CTBN decreased Tg with both increasing concentration and acrylonitrile content. Graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) consist of a few layers of graphene sheets, which

  9. Evaluation of hybrid binder for use in surface mixtures in Florida : final report, June 2009.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2009-06-01

    Binder and mixture tests were performed to evaluate the relative performance of a PG 67-22 base binder and six other commercially available binders produced by modifying the same base binder with the following modifiers: one Styrene Butadiene Styrene...

  10. Field test method to determine presence and quantity of modifiers in liquid asphalt - follow-up data analysis : [technical summary].

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-09-01

    Asphalt modified with styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) polymer and/or ground tire rubber : (GTR) is widely used in the U.S. to improve asphalt concrete performance. The high cost and : proven performance benefits of modified binders make it important ...

  11. Genotoxic effects of styrene-7,8-oxide in human white blood cells: comet assay in relation to the induction of sister-chromatid exchanges and micronuclei.

    PubMed

    Laffon, B; Pásaro, E; Méndez, J

    2001-04-05

    Styrene is used in the production of plastics, resins and rubber. The highest human exposures to styrene take place by inhalation during the production of fiberglass reinforced plastics. Styrene is metabolized mainly in the liver to styrene-7,8-oxide (SO), its principal in vivo mutagenic metabolite. In this study, human peripheral white blood cells were exposed to several SO concentrations (10-200 microM) in order to evaluate its genotoxic properties by means of comet assay, sister-chromatid exchanges (SCE) and cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus (MN) test, in addition to determine its clastogenic or aneugenic properties by combining MN with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) procedures. Our results show that SO induces DNA damage, SCE and MN in human leukocytes in vitro at concentrations above 50 microM, and that there is a strong relationship between DNA damage, as measured by the comet assay, and cytogenetic damage induced by SO at the doses employed. SO shows preferentially a clastogenic activity and produces a cytostatic effect at high doses, reflected by the significant decrease of the calculated proliferation indices. A good dose-effect relationship is obtained in the three tests performed at the concentration range assayed.

  12. Preparation, characterization, and antibacterial activity studies of silver-loaded poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) nanocomposites.

    PubMed

    Song, Cunfeng; Chang, Ying; Cheng, Ling; Xu, Yiting; Chen, Xiaoling; Zhang, Long; Zhong, Lina; Dai, Lizong

    2014-03-01

    A simple method for preparing a new type of stable antibacterial agent was presented. Monodisperse poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) (PSA) nanospheres, serving as matrices, were synthesized via soap-free emulsion polymerization. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs indicated that PSA nanospheres have interesting surface microstructures and well-controlled particle size distributions. Silver-loaded poly(styrene-co-acrylic acid) (PSA/Ag-NPs) nanocomposites were prepared in situ through interfacial reduction of silver nitrate with sodium borohydride, and further characterized by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Their effects on antibacterial activity including inhibition zone, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and bactericidal kinetics were evaluated. In the tests, PSA/Ag-NPs nanocomposites showed excellent antibacterial activity against both gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Escherichia coli. These nanocomposites are considered to have potential application in antibacterial coatings on biomedical devices to reduce nosocomial infection rates. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. EVALUATION OF POLLUTION PREVENTION OPTIONS TO REDUCE STYRENE EMISSIONS FROM FIBER-REINFORCED PLASTIC OPEN MOLDING PROCESSES

    EPA Science Inventory

    Pollution prevention (P2) options to reduce styrene emissions, such as new materials, and application equipment, are commercially available to the operators of open molding processes. However, information is lacking on the emissions reduction that these options can achieve. To me...

  14. Porous Aromatic Framework 48/Gel Hybrid Material Coated Solid-Phase Microextraction Fiber for the Determination of the Migration of Styrene from Polystyrene Food Contact Materials.

    PubMed

    Jin, Yuanyuan; Li, Zhongyue; Yang, Lei; Xu, Jun; Zhao, Le; Li, Zhonghao; Niu, Jiajia

    2017-01-17

    A novel solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fiber was fabricated by a porous aromatic framework 48 (PAF-48)/gel hybrid material through a sol-gel process. PAF-48 is a porous organic framework (POF) material that was polymerized from 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene. The uniform pore structure, high surface area, continuous conjugate network, and hydrophobicity make PAF-48 expected to have special abilities to absorb and extract styrene as well as some other harmful volatile aromatic compounds (VACs). The PAF-48/gel-coated fiber was explored for the extraction of styrene and six VACs (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes) from aqueous food simulants followed by gas chromatography (GC) separation. The fiber was found to be very sensitive for the determination of the target molecules with wide linear ranges (0.1-200 or 500 μg·kg -1 ), low limits of detection (LODs, 0.003-0.060 μg·kg -1 ), acceptable precisions (intraday relative standard deviation, RSD < 5.9%, interday RSD < 7.3%), and long lifetime (>200 times). Particularly for styrene, the PAF-48/gel-coated fiber exhibited a much lower LOD (0.006 μg·kg -1 ) compared with most of the reported fibers. Moreover, the PAF-48/gel-coated fiber had a high extraction selectivity for styrene and VACs over alcohols, phenols, aromatic amines, and alkanes and show a molecular sieving effect for the different molecule sizes. Finally, the PAF-48/gel-coated SPME fiber was successfully applied in GC for the determination of the specific migrations of styrene and VACs from polystyrene (PS) plastic food contact materials (FCMs).

  15. Organisation and shape of micellar solutions of block copolymers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gaspard, J. P.; Creutz, S.; Bouchat, Ph.; Jérôme, R.; Cohen Stuart, M.

    1997-02-01

    Diblock copolymers of polymethacrylic acid sodium salt, forming the hair, and styrene derivatives have been studied in aqueous solutions by SANS and SAXS. The influence of both the chemical nature and the length of the hydrophobic bloxk on the size and shape of micelles have been investigated. The micellar core size is in agreement with the theoretical evaluation for copolymers with a short hydrophobic sequence. In contrast, in case of larger hydrophobic blocks, the measured size is incompatible with a star-like model. Various hypotheses are presented for the latter.

  16. Preparation of silica-coated poly(styrene-co-4-vinylpyridine) particles and hollow particles.

    PubMed

    Zou, Hua; Wu, Shishan; Shen, Jian

    2008-09-16

    This paper presents a novel method for preparation of polymer-silica colloidal nanocomposites based on emulsion polymerization and subsequent sol-gel nanocoating process. The polystyrene latex particles bearing basic groups on their surfaces were successfully synthesized through emulsion polymerization using 4-vinylpyridine (4VP) as a functional comonomer and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a surfactant. A series of poly(styrene-co-4-vinylpyridine)/SiO2 nanocomposite particles with smooth or rough core-shell morphology were obtained through the coating process. The poly(styrene-co-4-vinylpyridine) particles could be dissolved subsequently or simultaneously during the sol-gel coating process to form hollow particles. The effects of the amount of 4VP, PVP, NH(4)OH, and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) on both the nanocomposite particles and hollow particles were investigated. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the morphology of the nanocomposite particles and hollow particles was strongly influenced by the initial feed of the comonomer 4VP and the coupling agent PVP. The conditions to obtain all hollow particles were also studied. Thermogravimetric analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses indicated that the interiors of hollow particles were not really "hollow".

  17. Creating surfactant nanoparticles for block copolymer composites through surface chemistry.

    PubMed

    Kim, Bumjoon J; Bang, Joona; Hawker, Craig J; Chiu, Julia J; Pine, David J; Jang, Se Gyu; Yang, Seung-Man; Kramer, Edward J

    2007-12-04

    A simple strategy to tailor the surface of nanoparticles for their specific adsorption to and localization at block copolymer interfaces was explored. Gold nanoparticles coated by a mixture of low molecular weight thiol end-functional polystyrene (PS-SH) (Mn = 1.5 and 3.4 kg/mol) and poly(2-vinylpyridine) homopolymers (P2VP-SH) (Mn = 1.5 and 3.0 kg/mol) were incorporated into a lamellar poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine) diblock copolymer (PS-b-P2VP) (Mn = 196 kg/mol). A library of nanoparticles with varying PS and P2VP surface compositions (FPS) and high polymer ligand areal chain densities was synthesized. The location of the nanoparticles in the PS-b-P2VP block copolymer was determined by transmission electron microscopy. Sharp transitions in particle location from the PS domain to the PS/P2VP interface, and subsequently to the P2VP domain, were observed at FPS = 0.9 and 0.1, respectively. This extremely wide window of FPS values where the polymer-coated gold nanoparticles adsorb to the interface suggests a redistribution of PS and P2VP polymers on the Au surface, inducing the formation of amphiphilic nanoparticles at the PS/P2VP interface. In a second and synthetically more challenging approach, gold nanoparticles were covered with a thiol terminated random copolymer of styrene and 2-vinylpyridine synthesized by RAFT polymerization. Two different random copolymers were considered, where the molecular weight was fixed at 3.5 kg/mol and the relative incorporation of styrene and 2-vinylpyridine repeat units varied (FPS = 0.52 and 0.40). The areal chain density of these random copolymers on Au is unfortunately not high enough to preclude any contact between the P2VP block of the block copolymer and the Au surface. Interestingly, gold nanoparticles coated by the random copolymer with FPS = 0.4 were dispersed in the P2VP domain, while those with FPS = 0.52 were located at the interface. A simple calculation for the adsorption energy to the interface of the nanoparticles

  18. Origin of pressure effects on regioselectivity and enantioselectivity in the rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation of styrene with (S,S,S)-BisDiazaphos.

    PubMed

    Watkins, Avery L; Landis, Clark R

    2010-08-04

    Gas pressure influences the regioselectivity and enantioselectivity of aryl alkene hydroformylation as catalyzed by rhodium complexes of the BisDiazaphos ligand. Deuterioformylation of styrene at 80 degrees C results in extensive deuterium incorporation into the terminal position of the recovered styrene. This result establishes that rhodium hydride addition to form a branched alkyl rhodium occurs reversibly. The independent effect of carbon monoxide and hydrogen partial pressures on regioselectivity and enantioselectivity were measured. From 40 to 120 psi, both regioisomer (b:l) and enantiomer (R:S) ratios are proportional to the carbon monoxide partial pressure but approximately independent of the hydrogen pressure. The absolute rate for linear aldehyde formation was found to be inhibited by carbon monoxide pressure, whereas the rate for branched aldehyde formation is independent of CO pressure up to 80 psi; above 80 psi one observes the onset of inhibition. The carbon monoxide dependence of the rate and enantioselectivity for branched aldehyde indicates that the rate of production of (S)-2-phenyl propanal is inhibited by CO pressure, while the formation rate of the major enantiomer, (R)-2-phenyl propanal, is approximately independent of CO pressure. Hydroformylation of alpha-deuteriostyrene at 80 degrees C followed by conversion to (S)-2-benzyl-4-nitrobutanal reveals that 83% of the 2-phenylpropanal resulted from rhodium hydride addition to the re face of styrene, and 83% of the 3-phenylpropanal resulted from rhodium hydride addition to the si face of styrene. On the basis of these results, kinetic and steric/electronic models for the determination of regioselectivity and enantioselectivity are proposed.

  19. Field test method to determine presence and quantity of modifiers in liquid asphalt.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2015-05-01

    Asphalt modified with styrene butadiene styrene (SBS) polymer and/or ground tire rubber (GTR) is widely used in the U.S. : to enhance its performance. However, there are very few field tests developed to verify the content of modifier(s) in asphalt :...

  20. Interpreting Neutron Reflectivity Profiles of Diblock Copolymer Nanocomposite Thin Films Using Hybrid Particle-Field Simulations

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mahalik, Jyoti P.; Dugger, Jason W.; Sides, Scott W.

    Mixtures of block copolymers and nanoparticles (block copolymer nanocomposites) are known to microphase separate into a plethora of microstructures, depending on the composition, length scale and nature of interactions among its different constituents. Theoretical and experimental works on this class of nanocomposites have already high-lighted intricate relations among chemical details of the polymers, nanoparticles, and various microstructures. Confining these nanocomposites in thin films yields an even larger array of structures, which are not normally observed in the bulk. In contrast to the bulk, exploring various microstructures in thin films by the experimental route remains a challenging task. Here in thismore » work, we construct a model for the thin films of lamellar forming diblock copolymers containing spherical nanoparticles based on a hybrid particle-field approach. The model is benchmarked by comparison with the depth profiles obtained from the neutron reflectivity experiments for symmetric poly(deuterated styrene-b-n butyl methacrylate) copolymers blended with spherical magnetite nanoparticles covered with hydrogenated poly(styrene) corona. We show that the model based on a hybrid particle-field approach provides details of the underlying microphase separation in the presence of the nanoparticles through a direct comparison to the neutron reflectivity data. This work benchmarks the application of the hybrid particle-field model to extract the interaction parameters for exploring different microstructures in thin films containing block copolymers and nanocomposites.« less

  1. Interpreting Neutron Reflectivity Profiles of Diblock Copolymer Nanocomposite Thin Films Using Hybrid Particle-Field Simulations

    DOE PAGES

    Mahalik, Jyoti P.; Dugger, Jason W.; Sides, Scott W.; ...

    2018-04-10

    Mixtures of block copolymers and nanoparticles (block copolymer nanocomposites) are known to microphase separate into a plethora of microstructures, depending on the composition, length scale and nature of interactions among its different constituents. Theoretical and experimental works on this class of nanocomposites have already high-lighted intricate relations among chemical details of the polymers, nanoparticles, and various microstructures. Confining these nanocomposites in thin films yields an even larger array of structures, which are not normally observed in the bulk. In contrast to the bulk, exploring various microstructures in thin films by the experimental route remains a challenging task. Here in thismore » work, we construct a model for the thin films of lamellar forming diblock copolymers containing spherical nanoparticles based on a hybrid particle-field approach. The model is benchmarked by comparison with the depth profiles obtained from the neutron reflectivity experiments for symmetric poly(deuterated styrene-b-n butyl methacrylate) copolymers blended with spherical magnetite nanoparticles covered with hydrogenated poly(styrene) corona. We show that the model based on a hybrid particle-field approach provides details of the underlying microphase separation in the presence of the nanoparticles through a direct comparison to the neutron reflectivity data. This work benchmarks the application of the hybrid particle-field model to extract the interaction parameters for exploring different microstructures in thin films containing block copolymers and nanocomposites.« less

  2. TEMPO addition into pre-irradiated fluoropolymers and living-radical graft polymerization of styrene for preparation of polymer electrolyte membranes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sawada, Shin-ichi; Suzuki, Akihiro; Terai, Takayuki; Maekawa, Yasunari

    2010-04-01

    We prepared proton exchange membranes (PEMs) by 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyl-1-oxy (TEMPO)-mediated living-radical graft polymerization (LRGP) of styrene into fluoropolymer films and subsequent sulfonation. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and poly(ethylene- co-tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) films were first irradiated and then treated with TEMPO solutions in various solvents. TEMPO addition was confirmed by the test of styrene grafting into TEMPO-treated films at 60 °C, at which the LRGP never proceeds. This test enabled us to differentiate the LRGP from the conventional graft polymerization. In order to gain a deep insight about TEMPO-addition reaction, the TEMPO-penetration behavior into the base polymer films was examined by a permeation experiment and computer simulation. Xylene and dioxane were appropriate solvents for the complete introduction of TEMPO into PVDF and ETFE films, respectively. Then, the LRGP of styrene was performed based on the fully TEMPO-capped films at 125 °C with various solvents. By using an alcoholic solvent, the degree of grafting was enhanced and it reached a maximum of 38%. This grafted film was sulfonated to prepare a PEM showing an ion exchange capacity of 2.2 meq/g and proton conductivity of 1.6×10 -1 S/cm.

  3. Derivation of safe health-based exposure limits for potential consumer exposure to styrene migrating into food from food containers.

    PubMed

    Gelbke, Heinz-Peter; Banton, Marcy; Faes, Eric; Leibold, Edgar; Pemberton, Mark; Duhayon, Sophie

    2014-02-01

    Residual styrene present in polystyrene food packaging may migrate into food at low levels. To assure safe use, safe exposure levels are derived for consumers potentially exposed via food using No/Low Adverse Effect Levels from animal and human studies and assessment factors proposed by European organisations (EFSA, ECHA, ECETOC). Ototoxicity and developmental toxicity in rats and human ototoxicity and effects on colour discrimination have been identified as the most relevant toxicological properties for styrene health assessments. Safe exposure levels derived from animal studies with assessment factors of EFSA and ECHA were expectedly much lower than those using the ECETOC approach. Comparable safe exposure levels were obtained from human data with all sets of assessment factors while ototoxicity in rats led to major differences. The safe exposure levels finally selected based on criteria of science and health protection converged to the range of 90-120 mg/person/d. Assuming a consumption of 1 kg food/d for an adult, this translates to 90 mg styrene migration into 1 kg food as safe for consumers. This assessment supports a health based Specific Migration Limit of 90 ppm, a value somewhat higher than the current overall migration limit of 60 ppm in the European Union. Copyright © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  4. The Weight of Evidence Does Not Support the Listing of Styrene as “Reasonably Anticipated to be a Human Carcinogen” in NTP's Twelfth Report on Carcinogens

    PubMed Central

    Rhomberg, Lorenz R.; Goodman, Julie E.; Prueitt, Robyn L.

    2013-01-01

    Styrene was listed as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” in the twelfth edition of the National Toxicology Program's Report on Carcinogens based on what we contend are erroneous findings of limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans, sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals, and supporting mechanistic data. The epidemiology studies show no consistent increased incidence of, or mortality from, any type of cancer. In animal studies, increased incidence rates of mostly benign tumors have been observed only in certain strains of one species (mice) and at one tissue site (lung). The lack of concordance of tumor incidence and tumor type among animals (even within the same species) and humans indicates that there has been no particular cancer consistently observed among all available studies. The only plausible mechanism for styrene-induced carcinogenesis—a non-genotoxic mode of action that is specific to the mouse lung—is not relevant to humans. As a whole, the evidence does not support the characterization of styrene as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen,” and styrene should not be listed in the Report on Carcinogens. PMID:23335843

  5. Analysis of x-ray tomography data of an extruded low density styrenic foam: an image analysis study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Jui-Ching; Heeschen, William

    2016-10-01

    Extruded styrenic foams are low density foams that are widely used for thermal insulation. It is difficult to precisely characterize the structure of the cells in low density foams by traditional cross-section viewing due to the frailty of the walls of the cells. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is a non-destructive, three dimensional structure characterization technique that has great potential for structure characterization of styrenic foams. Unfortunately the intrinsic artifacts of the data and the artifacts generated during image reconstruction are often comparable in size and shape to the thin walls of the foam, making robust and reliable analysis of cell sizes challenging. We explored three different image processing methods to clean up artifacts in the reconstructed images, thus allowing quantitative three dimensional determination of cell size in a low density styrenic foam. Three image processing approaches - an intensity based approach, an intensity variance based approach, and a machine learning based approach - are explored in this study, and the machine learning image feature classification method was shown to be the best. Individual cells are segmented within the images after the images were cleaned up using the three different methods and the cell sizes are measured and compared in the study. Although the collected data with the image analysis methods together did not yield enough measurements for a good statistic of the measurement of cell sizes, the problem can be resolved by measuring multiple samples or increasing imaging field of view.

  6. Fabrication of Pt/Au concentric spheres from triblock copolymer.

    PubMed

    Koh, Haeng-Deog; Park, Soojin; Russell, Thomas P

    2010-02-23

    Dispersion of an aqueous H(2)PtCl(6) solution into a trifluorotoluene (TFT) solution of a polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO) triblock copolymer produced an emulsion-induced hollow micelle (EIHM), comprising a water nanodroplet stabilized by PEO, H(2)PtCl(6)/P2VP, and PS, sequentially. The following addition of an aqueous LiAuCl(4) solution into the dispersion led to a coordination of LiAuCl(4) and PEO. The resulting spherical EIHM structure was transformed to a hollow cylindrical micelle by the fusion of spherical EIHM with the addition of methanol. This structural transition was reversible by the alternative addition of methanol and TFT. Oxygen plasma was used to generate Pt/Au concentric spheres and hollow cylindrical Pt/Au nano-objects.

  7. Selective deposition and self-assembly of triblock copolymers into matrix arrays for membrane protein production.

    PubMed

    Andreasson-Ochsner, Mirjam; Fu, Zhikang; May, Sylvia; Xiu, Low Ying; Nallani, Madhavan; Sinner, Eva-Kathrin

    2012-01-31

    To improve the stability of cell membrane mimics, there has been growing interest in the use of block copolymers. Here, we present an easy approach to create an array of planar polymeric matrices capable of hosting membrane proteins. The array of polymeric matrices was formed by the selective deposition of triblock copolymers onto an array of hydrophilic islands situated within a hydrophobic background. The thickness of these matrices corresponds to the length of a single polymer chain. These polymeric matrices were used to host cell-free expressed membrane proteins, and offers a prototype from which a membrane protein array can be created for diagnostics or drug discovery purposes. © 2011 American Chemical Society

  8. Directed Self-Assembly of Poly(2-vinylpyridine)-b-polystyrene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) Triblock Copolymer with Sub-15 nm Spacing Line Patterns Using a Nanoimprinted Photoresist Template.

    PubMed

    Sun, Zhiwei; Chen, Zhenbin; Zhang, Wenxu; Choi, Jaewon; Huang, Caili; Jeong, Gajin; Coughlin, E Bryan; Hsu, Yautzong; Yang, XiaoMin; Lee, Kim Y; Kuo, David S; Xiao, Shuaigang; Russell, Thomas P

    2015-08-05

    Low molecular weight P2VP-b-PS-b-P2VP triblock copolymer (poly(2-vinlypyridine)-block-polystyrene-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine)] is doped with copper chloride and microphase separated into lamellar line patterns with ultrahigh area density. Salt-doped P2VP-b-PS-b-P2VP triblock copolymer is self-assembled on the top of the nanoimprinted photoresist template, and metallic nanowires with long-range ordering are prepared with platinum-salt infiltration and plasma etching. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  9. Fe(II)/Fe(III)-Catalyzed Intramolecular Didehydro-Diels-Alder Reaction of Styrene-ynes.

    PubMed

    Mun, Hyeon Jin; Seong, Eun Young; Ahn, Kwang-Hyun; Kang, Eun Joo

    2018-02-02

    The intramolecular didehydro-Diels-Alder reaction of styrene-ynes was catalyzed by Fe(II) and Fe(III) to produce various naphthalene derivatives under microwave heating conditions. Mechanistic calculations found that the Fe(II) catalyst activates the styrenyl diene in an inverse-electron-demand Diels-Alder reaction, and the consecutive dehydrogenation reaction can be promoted by either Fe(II)-catalyzed direct dehydrogenation or an Fe(III)-catalyzed rearomatization/dehydrogenation pathway.

  10. 13-C NMR Spectra of Styrene Derivatives: An Undergraduate Experiment Involving the Application of the Hammett Equation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blunt, J. W.; Happer, D. A. R.

    1979-01-01

    In this experiment, the observation that, for meta- and para-substituted styrene derivatives, the magnitude of the C-13 shielding value for the beta-carbon is linearly related to sigma for the ring substituent is used to determine sigma. (BB)

  11. Determination of antidepressants in human urine extracted by magnetic multiwalled carbon nanotube poly(styrene-co-divinylbenzene) composites and separation by capillary electrophoresis.

    PubMed

    Murtada, Khaled; de Andrés, Fernando; Ríos, Angel; Zougagh, Mohammed

    2018-04-20

    Poly(styrene-co-divinylbenzene)-coated magnetic multiwalled carbon nanotube composite synthesized by in-situ high temperature combination and precipitation polymerization of styrene-co-divinylbenzene has been employed as a magnetic sorbent for the solid phase extraction of antidepressants in human urine samples. Fluoxetine, venlafaxine, citalopram and sertraline were, afterwards, separated and determined by capillary electrophoresis with diode array detection. The presence of magnetic multiwalled carbon nanotubes in native poly(styrene-co-divinylbenzene) not only simplified sample treatment but also enhanced the adsorption efficiencies, obtaining extraction recoveries higher than 89.5% for all analytes. Moreover, this composite can be re-used at least 10 times without loss of efficiency and limits of detection ranging from 0.014 to 0.041 μg mL -1 were calculated. Additionally, precision values ranging from 0.08 to 7.50% and from 0.21 to 3.05% were obtained for the responses and for the migration times of the analytes, respectively. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  12. Temperature-dependent optical properties of gold nanoparticles coated with a charged diblock copolymer and an uncharged triblock copolymer.

    PubMed

    Volden, Sondre; Kjøniksen, Anna-Lena; Zhu, Kaizheng; Genzer, Jan; Nyström, Bo; Glomm, Wilhelm R

    2010-02-23

    We demonstrate that the optical properties of gold nanoparticles can be used to detect and follow stimuli-induced changes in adsorbed macromolecules. Specifically, we investigate thermal response of anionic diblock and uncharged triblock copolymers based on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAM) blocks adsorbed onto gold nanoparticles and planar gold surfaces in a temperature range between 25 and 60 degrees C. By employing a palette of analytical probes, including UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, fluorescence, and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, we establish that while the anionic copolymer forms monolayers at both low and high temperature, the neutral copolymer adsorbs as a monolayer at low temperatures and forms multilayers above the cloud point (T(C)). Raising the temperature above T(C) severely affects the optical properties of the gold particle/polymer composites, expelling associated water and altering the immediate surroundings of the gold nanoparticles. This effect, stronger for the uncharged polymer, is related to the amount of polymer adsorbed on the surface, where a denser shell influences the surface plasmon band to a greater degree. This is corroborated with light scattering experiments, which reveal that flocculation of the neutral polymer-coated particles occurs at high temperatures. The flocculation behavior of the neutral copolymer on planar gold surfaces results in multilayer formation. The observed effects are discussed within the framework of the Mie-Drude theory.

  13. Tunable PhoXonic Band Gap Materials from Self-Assembly of Block Copolymers and Colloidal Nanocrystals (NBIT Phase II)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-12

    their application in sensors and as displays. We found that the thermochromic behavior of a lamellar block copolymer poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine...the solution pH. The findings of this work provide the basis for understanding and controlling the properties of thermochromic block copolymers...by the glassy PS layers . The glassy layers completely constrain the lateral expansion of the P2VP gel block and the dislocation defect network that

  14. Synthesis and evaluation of poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) micellar nanocarriers for the delivery of tanespimycin

    PubMed Central

    Larson, Nate; Greish, Khaled; Bauer, Hillevi; Maeda, Hiroshi; Ghandehari, Hamidreza

    2011-01-01

    Polymeric micelles carrying the heat shock protein 90 inhibitor tanespimycin (17-N-Allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin) were synthesized using poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (SMA) copolymers and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. SMA-tanespimycin micelles were prepared with a loading efficiency of 93%. The micelles incorporated 25.6% tanespimycin by weight, exhibited a mean diameter of 74 ± 7 nm by dynamic light scattering and a zeta potential of -35 ± 3 mV. Tanespimycin was released from the micelles in a controlled manner in vitro, with 62% released in 24 hours from a pH 7.4 buffer containing bovine serum albumin. The micellar drug delivery systems for tanespimycin showed potent activity against DU145 human prostate cancer cells, with an IC50 of 230 nM. They further exhibited potent anti-cancer activity in vivo in nu/nu mice bearing subcutaneous DU145 human prostate cancer tumor xenografts, with significantly higher anticancer efficacy as measured by tumor regression when compared to free tanespimycin at an equivalent single dose of 10 mg/kg. These data suggest further investigation of SMA-tanespimycin as a promising agent in the treatment of prostate cancer. PMID:21856392

  15. Core-Shell-Corona Micelles with a Responsive Shell.

    PubMed

    Gohy, Jean-François; Willet, Nicolas; Varshney, Sunil; Zhang, Jian-Xin; Jérôme, Robert

    2001-09-03

    A reactor for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles is one of the uses of a poly(styrene)-block-poly(2-vinylpyridine)-block-poly(ethylene oxide) triblock copolymer (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO) which forms core-shell-corona micelles in water. Very low polydispersity spherical micelles are observed that consist of a PS core surrounded by a pH-sensitive P2VP shell and a corona of PEO chains end-capped by a hydroxyl group. The corona can act as a site for attaching responsive or sensing molecules. © 2001 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH, Weinheim, Fed. Rep. of Germany.

  16. Association of a multifunctional ionic block copolymer in a selective solvent

    DOE PAGES

    Etampawala, Thusitha N.; Aryal, Dipak; Osti, Naresh C.; ...

    2016-11-14

    The self-assembly of multiblock copolymers in solutions is controlled by a delicate balance between inherent phase segregation due to incompatibility of the blocks and the interaction of the individual blocks with the solvent. The current study elucidates the association of pentablock copolymers in a mixture of selective solvents which are good for the hydrophobic segments and poor for the hydrophilic blocks using small angle neutron scattering (SANS). The pentablock consists of a center block of randomly sulfonated polystyrene, designed for transport, tethered to poly-ethylene-r-propylene and end-capped by poly-t-butyl styrene, for mechanical stability. We find that the pentablock forms ellipsoidal core-shellmore » micelles with the sulfonated polystyrene in the core and Gaussian decaying chains of swollen poly-ethylene-r-propylene and poly-t-butyl styrene tertiary in the corona. With increasing solution concentration, the size of the micelle, the thickness of the corona, and the aggregation number increase, while the solvent fraction in the core decreases. As a result, in dilute solution the micelle increases in size as the temperature is increased, however, temperature effects dissipate with increasing solution concentration.« less

  17. Structure and Mechanism of Styrene Monooxygenase Reductase: New Insight into the FAD–Transfer Reaction†

    PubMed Central

    Morrison, Eliot; Kantz, Auric; Gassner, George T.; Sazinsky, Matthew H.

    2013-01-01

    The two–component flavoprotein styrene monooxygenase (SMO) from Pseudomonas putida S12 catalyzes the NADH– and FAD–dependent epoxidation of styrene to styrene oxide. In this study we investigate the mechanism of flavin reduction and transfer from the reductase (SMOB) to epoxidase (NSMOA) component and report our findings in light of the 2.2–Å crystal structure of SMOB. Upon rapidly mixing with NADH, SMOB forms an NADH→FADox charge–transfer intermediate and catalyzes a hydride–transfer reaction from NADH to FAD, with a rate constant of 49.1 ± 1.4 s−1, in a step that is coupled to the rapid dissociation of NAD+. Electrochemical and equilibrium–binding studies indicate that NSMOA binds FADhq ~13–times more tightly than SMOB, which supports a vectoral transfer of FADhq from the reductase to the epoxidase. After binding to NSMOA, FADhq rapidly reacts with molecular oxygen to form a stable C(4a)–hydroperoxide intermediate. The half–life of apoSMOB generated in the FAD–transfer reaction is increased ~21–fold, supporting the model of a protein–protein interaction between apoSMOB and NSMOA with the peroxide intermediate. The mechanisms of FAD–dissociation and transport from SMOB to NSMOA were probed by monitoring the competitive reduction of cytochrome c in the presence and absence of pyridine nucleotides. Based on these studies, we propose a model in which reduced FAD binds to SMOB in equilibrium between an unreactive, sequestered state (S–state) and more reactive, transfer state (T–state). Dissociation of NAD+ after the hydride transfer–reaction transiently populates the T–state, promoting the transfer of FADhq to NSMOA. The binding of pyridine nucleotides to SMOB–FADhq shifts the FADhq–binding equilibrium from the T–state to the S–state. Additionally, the 2.2–Å crystal structure of SMOB–FADox reported in this work is discussed in light of the pyridine nucleotide–gated flavin–transfer and electron

  18. Adsorption of copolymers at polymer/air and polymer/solid interfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oslanec, Robert

    Using mainly low-energy forward recoil spectrometry (LE-FRES) and neutron reflectivity (NR), copolymer behavior at polymer/air and polymer/solid interfaces is investigated. For a miscible blend of poly(styrene-ran-acrylonitrile) copolymers, the volume fraction profile of the copolymer with lower acrylonitrile content is flat near the surface in contrast to mean field predictions. Including copolymer polydispersity into a self consistent mean field (SCMF) model does not account for this profile shape. LE-FRES and NR is also used to study poly(deuterated styrene-block-methyl-methacrylate) (dPS-b-PMMA) adsorption from a polymer matrix to a silicon oxide substrate. The interfacial excess, zsp*, layer thickness, L, and layer-matrix width, w, depend strongly on the number of matrix segments, P, for P 2N, the matrix chains are repelled from the adsorbed layer and the layer characteristics become independent of P. An SCMF model of block copolymer adsorption is developed. SCMF predictions are in qualitative agreement with the experimental behavior of zsp*, L, and w as a function of P. Using this model, the interaction energy of the MMA block with the oxide substrate is found to be -8ksb{B}T. In a subsequent experiment, the matrix/dPS interaction is made increasingly unfavorable by increasing the 4-bromostyrene mole fraction, x, in a poly(styrene-ran-4-bromostyrene) (PBrsbxS) matrix. Whereas experiments show that zsp* slightly decreases as x increases, the SCMF model predicts that zsp* should increase as the matrix becomes more unfavorable. Upon including a small matrix attraction for the substrate, the SCMF model shows that zsp* decreases with x because of competition between PBrsbxS and dPS-b-PMMA for adsorbing sites. In thin film dewetting experiments on silicon oxide, the addition of dPS-b-PMMA to PS coatings acts to slow hole growth and prevent holes from impinging. Dewetting studies show that longer dPS-b-PMMA chains are more effective stabilizing agents than shorter

  19. Hepatic effects of orally administered styrene in rats.

    PubMed

    Srivastava, S P; Das, M; Mushtaq, M; Chandra, S V; Seth, P K

    1982-08-01

    Adult male rats receiving styrene by gavage (200 or 400 mg kg-1, 6 days a week) for 100 days exhibited a significant dose-dependent increase in hepatic benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase and aminopyrine-N-demethylase, a decrease in glutathione-S-transferase and no change in glucose-6-phosphatase. A decrease in the activity of mitochondrial succinic dehydrogenase and beta-glucuronidase was also observed. Activity of acid phosphatase was decreased only at the higher dose level. Levels of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase were elevated only at the higher dose level. The absolute and relative weights of the liver of control and treated animals showed no significant difference. Histopathological studies of the liver tissue revealed tiny areas of focal necrosis, consisting of few degenerated hepatocytes and inflammatory cells at the higher dose level only.

  20. Transport properties of proton-exchange membranes: Effect of supercritical-fluid processing and chemical functionality

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pulido Ayazo

    NafionRTM membranes commonly used in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC), are tipically limited by high methanol permeability (also known as the cross-over limitation). These membranes have phase segregated sulfonated ionic domains in a perfluorinated backbone, which makes processing challenging and limited by phase equilibria considerations. This study used supercritical fluids (SCFs) as a processing alternative, since the gas-like mass transport properties of SCFs allow a better penetration into the membranes and the use of polar co-solvents influenced their morphology, fine-tuning the physical and transport properties in the membrane. Measurements of methanol permeability and proton conductivity were performed to the NafionRTM membranes processed with SCFs at 40ºC and 200 bar and the co-solvents as: acetone, tetrahydrofuran (THF), isopropyl alcohol, HPLC-grade water, acetic acid, cyclohexanone. The results obtained for the permeability data were of the order of 10 -8-10-9 cm2/s, two orders of magnitude lower than unprocessed Nafion. Proton conductivity results obtained using AC impedance electrochemical spectroscopy was between 0.02 and 0.09 S/cm, very similar to the unprocessed Nafion. SCF processing with ethanol as co-solvent reduced the methanol permeability by two orders of magnitude, while the proton conductivity was only reduced by 4%. XRD analysis made to the treated samples exhibited a decreasing pattern in the crystallinity, which affects the transport properties of the membrane. Also, SAXS profiles of the Nafion membranes processed were obtained with the goal of determining changes produced by the SCF processing in the hydrophilic domains of the polymer. With the goal of searching for new alternatives in proton exchange membranes (PEMs) triblock copolymer of poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) (SIBS) and poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) SEBS were studied. These sulfonated tri-block copolymers had lower methanol permeabilities, but also lower proton