Impact of restricted mass transport on the free-radical decomposition of phenethyl phenyl ether
- Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)
In the thermal decomposition of complex macromolecules, reactive intermediates, such as free-radicals, may experience limited diffusional mobility or remain bound to the residual macromolecular framework. To explore the consequences of restricted diffusional and conformational mobility on free-radical reactions, the thermolysis of organic compounds covalently anchored to an inert silica surface through a Si-O-C{sub aryl} have been investigated. In the thermolysis of surface-immobilized phenethyl phenyl ether ({approximately}PPE) at 375{degrees}C, two sets of products, phenol plus surface-immobilized styrene and benzaldehyde plus surface-immobilized toluene, are produced in a 5:1 ratio by a free-radical chain pathway. The impact of a second, co-attached spacer molecule, such as naphthalene or diphenylmethane, on the rate and product selectivity will be presented and the mechanistic implications of restricted diffusional and conformational mobility on the free-radical reaction will be discussed.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-84OR21400
- OSTI ID:
- 370697
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-960376--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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