Lisäämiskopolymerointi

Lisäämiskopolymerointi, also known as addition copolymerization, is a process in polymer chemistry where two or more different types of monomers link together to form a polymer chain. Unlike condensation polymerization, this method does not produce any byproducts like water or methanol. The monomers add sequentially to a growing polymer chain, typically initiated by a radical, anion, or cation. The structure of the resulting copolymer depends on the reactivity ratios of the monomers and the reaction conditions.

There are several types of addition copolymers, including alternating copolymers, where monomers alternate in the chain (e.g., styrene-maleic anhydride); random copolymers, where monomers are randomly distributed (e.g., styrene-butadiene rubber); block copolymers, consisting of long sequences of each monomer (e.g., styrene-butadiene-styrene triblock copolymers); and graft copolymers, where side chains of one monomer are attached to a main chain of another.

The properties of addition copolymers can be tailored by controlling the composition and sequence of the monomers. This allows for the creation of materials with a wide range of characteristics, such as improved mechanical strength, enhanced thermal stability, or specific adhesive properties. Common examples of addition copolymers include ABS plastic (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene), used in durable goods like LEGO bricks, and various synthetic rubbers. The synthesis typically involves free radical polymerization, but anionic and cationic mechanisms are also employed.