Number: 410/31/97
> reinitiate as project
2002-017-1-400
Title: Polymerization Processes
and Polymers in Dispersed Systems
Task Group
Chairman: S.
Slomkowski
Members: K.
Horie, S. Penczek
Objective:
During the last decade, new types of polymerizations in dispersed
systems have been invented and polymer particles with new kinds
of properties and structures have been synthesized. Consequently,
a large group of industrially important polymerization processes
is now carried out in dispersed systems. Also, polymers in dispersed
systems are used in diverse areas, such as the paint industry, microelectronics,
medicine, cosmetics and biotechnology. Due to their complicated
compositions and structures, the same name is often used, in scientific
journals and at conferences, for different processes or products
and, conversely, different names are used for the same process or
product. In many instances, lack of clarity leads to confusion and
to difficulties in proper scientific and technological understanding.
Previously, some attempts have been made to unify selected groups
of terms related to polymerizations in dispersed systems. However,
a concerted and broad-based effort is now needed to prepare and
define properly the comprehensive list of terms and definitions
essential to describe, unambiguously, new, dispersed polymerization
processes and products. At the same time, definitions of many of
the older processes and products already existing in books and papers
would be clarified. A thorough, internationally-based feasibility
study has shown that more than 200 terms need to be considered and
that more than 50 are indispensable.
Progess:
The first draft of terms was discussed during a working meeting
at a Gordon Conference in 1999. Further discussions will be required
to achieve agreement amongst subject specialists. A new list of
terms is being prepared for evaluation by the Working Party and
specialists in the International Polymer Colloid Group.
Last update: 17 November 1999