The synthesis of polyvinyl alcohol PVA from vinyl acetate monomer VAM involves a two-step process: the polymerization of vinyl acetate to form polyvinyl acetate PVAc and the subsequent hydrolysis of PVAc to form PVA.1. Polymerization of vinyl acetate to polyvinyl acetate:The polymerization of vinyl acetate can be carried out through free radical polymerization using initiators like benzoyl peroxide BPO or azobisisobutyronitrile AIBN . The reaction is typically performed in a solvent, such as methanol or water, under an inert atmosphere e.g., nitrogen to prevent premature termination of the polymerization.Reaction conditions:- Initiator: Benzoyl peroxide BPO or azobisisobutyronitrile AIBN - Solvent: Methanol or water- Temperature: 60-80C for BPO or 60-70C for AIBN - Inert atmosphere: Nitrogen2. Hydrolysis of polyvinyl acetate to polyvinyl alcohol:The hydrolysis of PVAc to PVA is typically carried out using a base catalyst, such as sodium hydroxide NaOH or potassium hydroxide KOH . The reaction is performed in an aqueous solution, and the degree of hydrolysis can be controlled by adjusting the reaction time, temperature, and catalyst concentration.Reaction conditions:- Catalyst: Sodium hydroxide NaOH or potassium hydroxide KOH - Solvent: Water- Temperature: 60-90C- Reaction time: 1-5 hours depending on the desired degree of hydrolysis After the hydrolysis is complete, the PVA can be isolated by precipitation, filtration, and drying. The degree of hydrolysis and molecular weight of the PVA can be tailored by adjusting the reaction conditions in both steps.