Multivinyl

Multivinyl describes chemical species that carry more than one vinyl group, with vinyl groups typically defined as –CH=CH2. These functionalities enable a single molecule to participate in multiple polymerization events, making multivinyl compounds useful as crosslinking or branching agents in polymer networks. They can be difunctional (two vinyl groups) or polyfunctional (three or more).

In polymerization, multivinyl monomers act as crosslinkers, linking growing polymer chains and creating three-dimensional networks. They are widely used in radical-initiated polymerizations and UV- or heat-cured systems, and in step-growth processes where network formation is desired.

Common examples include divinylbenzene, ethylene glycol divinyl ether, triallyl isocyanurate, and trimethylolpropane triacrylate. These compounds vary in reactivity and rigidity, influencing crosslink density, glass transition temperature, solvent resistance, and mechanical properties of the final material.

Applications span UV-curable coatings and inks, epoxy- or acrylate-based adhesives, hydrogels for biomedical devices, ion-exchange and chromatographic resins, and high-performance thermosets. Choice of multivinyl crosslinker depends on desired network topology, processing conditions, and compatibility with the primary polymer matrix.

Safety and handling considerations include potential toxicity, odor, and sensitivity to moisture; many multivinyl monomers are reactive and may require anhydrous handling, closed systems, and appropriate personal protective equipment. Characterization commonly uses gel content, swelling, differential scanning calorimetry, and rheology to assess crosslink density and network properties.