Omopolimeri

Omopolimeri, commonly referred to as homopolymers, are polymers formed from a single type of monomer repeating unit. In contrast to copolymers, which incorporate two or more different monomer units in the same chain, homopolymers have a uniform composition along their backbone. Common examples include polyethylene (polymer of ethylene), polystyrene (styrene), polyvinyl chloride (vinyl chloride), and polymethyl methacrylate (methyl methacrylate).

These materials are typically produced by addition polymerization methods, such as free-radical, anionic, or controlled ('living') polymerization. The arrangement of monomer units, known as tacticity in certain polymers, influences crystallinity and properties: isotactic or syndiotactic homopolymers tend to be crystalline and have higher melting temperatures, while atactic forms are usually amorphous.

Properties vary with the monomer and tacticity but generally include strength, stiffness, chemical resistance, and processability. Homopolymers can be processed by extrusion, injection molding, or casting and may be used in films, packaging, automotive parts, lenses, and consumer goods. Some homopolymers are thermosets when crosslinked after polymerization; others remain thermoplastics.

Compared to copolymers, homopolymers offer uniform composition, predictable behavior, and often simpler synthesis, but may lack the tunable properties of copolymers that arise from incorporating multiple monomer units. The term omopolimeri is used in some languages to refer to these materials.