Polymerisation — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Q: What is the formula for Polymerisation?

The formula or notation for Polymerisation is: n M → (−M−)_n

Formula / Notation	n M → (−M−)_n
Also Known As	Polymer synthesis, chain polymerisation, condensation polymerisation, polymerization (US)

What is Polymerisation?

The chemical reaction in which monomer molecules join together to form a polymer. Addition polymerization occurs without loss of atoms; condensation polymerization releases small molecules (often water). Industrial polymers include polyethylene, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene.

Formula & Notation

n M → (−M−)_n

Other Names / Synonyms: Polymer synthesis, chain polymerisation, condensation polymerisation, polymerization (US)

Properties & Characteristics

Polymerisation is the chemical process by which monomers are covalently linked to form a polymer. Addition (chain-growth) polymerisation: the monomer's multiple bond opens and adds to a growing chain without loss of atoms (radical, anionic, cationic, or Ziegler-Natta catalysed). Step-growth (condensation) polymerisation: monomers react through functional groups with loss of small molecules (H₂O, HCl). Ring-opening polymerisation: cyclic monomers open to form linear chains.

Uses & Applications

Polymerisation is used to produce: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), PVC, polystyrene (PS), polyacrylonitrile, PTFE (Teflon), nylon, polyesters (PET), polycarbonate, silicones, and many other industrial and specialty polymers. Living polymerisation allows precise control of molecular weight and block copolymer architectures.

Safety Information

Radical polymerisation initiators (dibenzoyl peroxide, AIBN) are explosive if heated or shocked and must be stored at low temperature. Exothermic polymerisation reactions can run away if heat removal fails (e.g., bulk polymerisation of styrene — explosive detonation can occur). Unreacted monomers are often flammable and toxic; proper engineering controls and ventilation are required.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Polymerisation

Formula n M → (−M−)_n

Index All "P" terms

Synonyms Polymer synthesis, chain polymerisation, condensation polymerisation, polymerization (US)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Polymerisation?

The chemical reaction in which monomer molecules join together to form a polymer. Addition polymerization occurs without loss of atoms; condensation polymerization releases small molecules (often water). Industrial polymers include polyethylene, nylon, polyester, and polypropylene.

What is Polymerisation used for?

Is Polymerisation hazardous?

What is the formula for Polymerisation?

More "P" Terms

P-type Semiconductor Pairing Pairing Energy Palladium Pd Parachor [P] = M(γ)^(1/4) / (ρ_L - ρ_V) Paramagnetic χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons) Paramagnetism Partial Ionic Character % ionic = (1 - e^(-Δχ²/4)) × 100% Partial Pressure Partial Pressure p_i = x_i × P_total; P_total = Σp_i Particulate Matter Parts Per Million ppm = mg/L (water) or mg/kg; = (mass solute/mass solution) × 10⁶

View all "P" terms →