Patent ID: 6025443
Filing Date: 2000-02-15
Classification: C08F

Abstract:
Process for the production of bead polymers having an average particle size of 1 to 30 .mu.m using a seed/feed process, wherein the seed comprises a crosslinked polymer having a soluble fraction of less than 25 wt. % and an average particle size of 0.5 to 10 .mu.m, and wherein the feed comprises a mixture of monomer, initiator and optionally further additives, the process comprising the steps of:(a) suspending the crosslinked polymer in a continuous, aqueous phase,(b) adding the feed mixture of monomer, initiator, and optionally further additives to the resultant seed suspension before polymerisation, wherein the mixture permeates the seed to produce a swollen seed, and(c) polymerising the swollen seed at elevated temperature to yield the bead polymers.