| abstract |
A continuous polymerization process, apparatus and system is disclosed for producing low molecular weight polymers. Reactants, preferably polyethylene glycol (hereinafter PEG) and tolylene diisocyanate (hereinafter TDI), are combined in an intimately radially mixed single flowing stream, in a jacketed conduit with in-line mixers. Thorough radial mixing occurs in the conduit to produce a plug-shaped velocity flow profile across the conduit cross-section. There results a precisely controllable dwell time and thermal history which gives a product of high reproducibility. Moving parts are eliminated and the reactants only need be introduced together at one point along the entire reacting path. End product is obtained in approximately one-third of the heretofore known reaction time. |