In this application note, Malvern Panalytical will show how to separate the effects of a structural difference induced by a compositional change (bromination) and the structural change induced by polymer chain branching using the Mark-Houwink plot.

The manipulation of polymer properties through changes in structure or derivatisation is key to creating novel polymers with desirable physical properties.

For instance, polystyrene is brominated to instil fire retardant properties for uses in consumer goods such as furniture.

While creating these polymers is a particular challenge, characterisation of the
polymers and derivatives created also presents difficulties.