Polymerization

Polymerization is a process of reacting monomer molecules together in a chemical reaction to form polymer chains or three-dimensional networks. There are many forms of polymerization and different systems exist to categorize them.

Types of Polymerization

Polymerization that occurs through the coupling of monomers using their unsaturated bonds is called addition polymerization or chain-growth polymerization. This type of polymerization is further divided into three types: radical, anionic, and cationic polymerization.

Condensation polymerization is a form of step-growth polymerization where the monomers contain two or more reactive end groups. The distinction between step-growth and chain-growth polymerization is not so clear and has been the subject of much debate.

Mechanism of Polymerization

The process of polymerization involves several steps. The first step is the initiation, which involves the reactive intermediate. The next step is propagation, where the active center attacks monomer molecules and becomes a part of the growing polymer chain. The final step is termination, where the reaction is stopped.

Applications of Polymerization

Polymerization has a wide range of applications. It is used in the production of various types of plastics and resins. It is also used in the production of fibers, rubbers, adhesives, and coatings.

See Also

• Polymer chemistry
• Plastic
• Resin
• Adhesive
• Coating

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