A mathematical model for the Ziegler‐Natta polymerization of butadiene

Abstract A mathematical model which describes conversion and molecular weight development in the homogeneous polymerization of butadiene has been developed. The reaction scheme and derivation of the model equations are included. It was found that a catalyst formation efficiency must be estimated for each polymerization. The correct trends were predicted, although weight‐average molecular weight was often underestimated. The model could not fully account for the effect of water concentration.