Monomerstrom

Monomerstrom is a term used in polymer processing to denote the stream of monomer(s) supplied to a polymerization reactor. It forms one of several process streams that feed the reaction system, alongside initiators, solvents or diluents, comonomers, and recycle streams containing unreacted monomer. The composition of the monomerstrom is defined by the monomer(s) present, their relative concentrations, temperature, pressure, and phase (gas or liquid). In gas‑phase and slurry polymerization processes, the monomerstrom can be predominantly gaseous (such as ethylene or propylene) or liquid (such as styrene), and may be metered to achieve desired conversion and molecular weight.

The monomer stream is often purified or dried to remove impurities that can inhibit polymerization or promote unwanted side reactions. It may be stabilized with inhibitors to suppress premature polymerization during handling and transport, and may be mixed with comonomers to tailor polymer properties. In many plants, unreacted monomer is separated from the polymer product and recycled, with the monomerstrom feeding a recycle loop back to the reactor or to a purification unit.

Process considerations for the monomerstrom include accurate flow measurement, temperature and pressure control, and mass balance across the reactor system. Safety and handling are important due to the flammable and sometimes toxic nature of monomers, requiring leak detection, appropriate ventilation, and containment strategies.

Examples of monomerstrom applications include ethylene monomerstreams in polyethylene production, propylene monomerstreams in polypropylene production, and styrene monomerstreams in polystyrene production.