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Polymerization Unit

Polymerization is the process where small molecules called monomers combine to form large chainlike molecules known as polymers. There are two main types of polymerization: addition (chain-growth) polymerization, which produces thermoplastics without by-products, and condensation (step-growth) polymerization, which produces thermoset plastics and results in by-products. Examples of addition polymers include PVC and polyethene, while condensation polymers include nylon and bakelite.

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106 views1 page

Polymerization Unit

Polymerization is the process where small molecules called monomers combine to form large chainlike molecules known as polymers. There are two main types of polymerization: addition (chain-growth) polymerization, which produces thermoplastics without by-products, and condensation (step-growth) polymerization, which produces thermoset plastics and results in by-products. Examples of addition polymers include PVC and polyethene, while condensation polymers include nylon and bakelite.

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Polymerization

Polymerization, any process in which relatively small molecules, called


monomers, combine chemically to produce a very large chainlike or network
molecule, called a polymer. The monomer molecules may be all alike, or they may
represent two, three, or more different compounds.

Polymerization reactions are of two types:


1. Addition polymerization or chain-growth polymerization.
2. Condensation polymerization or step-growth polymerization

Addition or Chain Growth Polymerization


When the same or different monomer molecules (unsaturated compounds) are
successively added together on a large scale to form a polymer, this type of
polymerization is known as addition or chain-growth [Link] addition of
monomers results in the formation of the polymer. It results in no by-products.
Monomers must have either a double bond or triple bond. Produces thermoplastics.
Common examples of addition polymerisation are PVC, polyethene, Teflon etc.
Types of addition polymerization
Free Radical Polymerization: Here the addition polymer forms by addition of atoms
with a free electron in its valence shells. These are known as free radicals. They join
in a successive chain during free radical polymerization.
Cationic polymerization: A polymerization where a cation is formed causing a chain
reaction. It results in forming a long chain of repeating monomers.
Anionic Vinyl Polymerization: Involves the polymerization of particularly vinyl
polymers with a strong electronegative group to form a chain reaction.
Coordination Polymerization: It uses a catalyst which let us control the free radical
polymerization. It produces a polymer which has more density and strength.

Condensation polymerization or step-growth polymerization


The condensation reaction between monomers results in the formation of the
polymer. It results in by-products such as ammonia, water and HCl. Produces
thermoset plastics. Monomers must have two similar or different functional groups.
Common examples of condensation polymerisation are nylon, bakelite, silicon, etc.

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