Types of Polymerization Reactions

Addition Polymerization

This is also called as chain growth polymerization. In this, small monomer units joined to form a giant polymer. In each step length of chain increases. For example, Polymerization of ethane in the presence of Peroxides

Condensation Polymerization

In this type small molecules like H₂O, CO, NH₃ are eliminated during polymerization (step growth polymerization). Generally, organic compounds containing bifunctional groups such as idols, -dials, diamines, dicarboxylic acids undergo this type of polymerization reaction. For example, Preparation of nylon -6, 6.

What is Copolymerization?

In this process, two different monomers joined to form a polymer. Synthetic rubbers are prepared by this polymerization. For example, BUNA – S.

How to Calculate Molecular Mass of Polymers?

There are two types of average molecular masses of Polymers:

• Number Average Molecular Masses
• Weight Average Molecular Mass

Number Average Molecular Masses:

If N1, N2, N3…. are the number of macromolecular with molecular masses. M1, M2, M3….. Respectively then the number average molecular masses of the polymer is given by