The synthesis of polyethylene oxide PEO from ethylene oxide EO monomer is typically carried out via anionic ring-opening polymerization. The optimum conditions for this reaction depend on the desired molecular weight and yield of the polymer. Here are some general guidelines for the reaction conditions:1. Temperature: The reaction temperature should be maintained between 50-100C. Higher temperatures can lead to faster reaction rates and shorter reaction times, but may also result in side reactions and lower molecular weight products.2. Pressure: The reaction can be carried out under atmospheric pressure or slightly elevated pressure up to 5-10 bar . Higher pressures can help to increase the solubility of the ethylene oxide monomer in the reaction medium and improve the reaction rate.3. Catalyst concentration: The catalyst concentration plays a crucial role in determining the molecular weight of the PEO. Common catalysts for this reaction include alkali metal alkoxides, such as potassium tert-butoxide t-BuOK or sodium methoxide NaOMe . The concentration of the catalyst should be carefully controlled to achieve the desired molecular weight. Lower catalyst concentrations will result in higher molecular weight polymers, while higher catalyst concentrations will lead to lower molecular weight products.4. Reaction time: The reaction time depends on the desired molecular weight and yield of the polymer. Generally, longer reaction times will result in higher molecular weight products and higher yields. However, excessively long reaction times can lead to side reactions and degradation of the polymer. The reaction time should be optimized based on the specific reaction conditions and desired product properties.In summary, the optimum conditions for the synthesis of polyethylene oxide from ethylene oxide monomer will depend on the desired molecular weight and yield of the polymer. By carefully controlling the temperature, pressure, catalyst concentration, and reaction time, it is possible to achieve a wide range of molecular weights and yields for PEO.