| abstract |
Disclosed is an improvement to a polyether preparation process that includes a coalescing step. Amine-initiated polyethers prepared using a mixed alkylene oxide feed tend to coalesce significantly more slowly than glycerin-initiated polyethers, particularly in processes that include a holding step and/or elevated temperature following an initial alkoxylation to form a pre-polymer. This improvement is to perform a remedial end-capping of the pre-polymer, which may include amine degradation products, using an alkylene oxide which contains at least (3) carbons, prior to the molecular weight-building alkoxylation with the mixed alkylene oxide feed. The rate and performance of coalescing thereafter may be substantially enhanced. |