Simulation of the Reactive Extrusion Process of Styrene in a Modular Intermeshing Co-rotating Twin Screw Extruder

Modeling of chemical reactions in a modular intermeshing co-rotating twin-screw extruder is described. This method was applied to the simulation of the anionic bulk polymerization of styrene. Calculations were made for specific modular screw configuration, where both screw elements and kneading disc blocks were included. Reaction conversion and temperature rise were calculated along the screw axis. Good agreement between simulation and experimental results was obtained.