Determination of activation energy for the number average degree of polymerization using the fluorescence method

A novel method based on steady state fluorescence measurements is introduced for measuring the activation energy of the number average degree of polymerization (NADP). Pyrene (Py) was used as a fluorescence probe for real time monitoring of free-radical polymerization (FRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA). In situ FRP experiments were performed at various temperatures. Positive activation energy for NADP was measured and found to be 9.2 kcal/mol.