What type of reaction is polymerization of styrene?

First of all, the styrene polymerization reaction is relatively highly exothermic with a heat generation at around 71 kJ·mol–1. (10) At the same time, even without an initiator, two styrene molecules will undergo a Diels–Alder type of reaction and generate radicals to start self-polymerization upon heating.

How can styrene polymerization be prevented?

Polymerisation inhibitors (US: polymerization inhibitors) are chemical compounds added to monomers to prevent their auto-polymerisation. Styrene for example is distilled at temperatures above 100 °C whereupon it undergoes thermal polymerisation at a rate of ~2% per hour. …

What is the formula of styrene?

C8H8
Styrene/Formula

What is styrene used for?

Styrene is a chemical used to make latex, synthetic rubber, and polystyrene resins. These resins are used to make plastic packaging, disposable cups and containers, insulation, and other products. Styrene is also produced naturally in some plants. People may be exposed to styrene by breathing it in the air.

Is styrene harmful to health?

Health effects of styrene include irritation of the skin, eyes, and the upper respiratory tract. Acute exposure may also result in gastrointestinal effects. Provides an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) document that includes acute toxicity data for styrene. …

Why is styrene toxic?

Styrene is extensively metabolized by the body enzymes into other chemicals that are excreted through urine. Metabolic action is required for carcinogenicity and toxicity. In the photo below, the metabolites from styrene bond to the DNA base guanine and cause carcinogenic effects.

Is styrene cancerous?

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.

Is styrene bad for humans?

Health effects of styrene include irritation of the skin, eyes, and the upper respiratory tract. Acute exposure may also result in gastrointestinal effects. Provides an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) document that includes acute toxicity data for styrene.

What happens if we breathe styrene gas?

Styrene gas, when inhaled, can cause several symptoms such as nausea, headache, weakness, etc. Hundreds of people have been taken to hospital following styrene gas leak, with many complaining of difficulties breathing and a burning sensation in the eyes.