Polymeeristys

Polymeeristys, often translated as polymerization, is a chemical process where small molecules, called monomers, combine chemically to produce a large molecule, or polymer, composed of repeating structural units of the original monomers. This process can be initiated by various means, including heat, light, or catalysts. The resulting polymers can have vastly different properties depending on the type of monomer used and the polymerization method.

There are two primary mechanisms for polymerization: addition polymerization and condensation polymerization. In addition polymerization, monomers add to one another in such a way that the polymer contains all the atoms of the monomer. This typically involves a chain reaction where an initiator starts a chain, which then grows by adding more monomers. Examples of polymers formed by addition polymerization include polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Condensation polymerization, on the other hand, involves monomers reacting with each other to form larger structural units while releasing smaller molecules as byproducts, such as water or methanol. This process often involves functional groups on the monomers reacting to form new bonds. Polyesters and polyamides (like nylon) are common examples of polymers formed through condensation polymerization. The ability to control the polymerization process allows for the creation of materials with tailored properties for a wide range of applications, from plastics and fibers to adhesives and coatings.