Fluid dynamics of the phase inversion process in the bulk polymerization of high impact polystyrene

"In the synthesis of HIPS, phase inversion (PI) is the critical point at which a dispersed PS-rich phase becomes a continuous matrix, leaving behind a PB-rich phase as dispersed particles that may contain occluded PS-rich droplets inside (occlusions). The size and shape of these particles essentially determine the mechanical properties of the material, which makes PI a critical point during the reaction. In this work, the most popular mechanism for PI – an imbalance between coalescence and break-up of dispersed particles – is assessed through a population balance model, coupled with a heterogeneous polymerization model. Results are adjusted and discussed with experimental evidence gathered from TEM images."