Ringpolümeriseerimine

Ringpolümeriseerimine, also known as ring-opening polymerization (ROP), is a type of chain-growth polymerization in which a monomer containing a ring structure reacts to form a polymer. The ring opens during the polymerization process, and the monomer units link together to create a long polymer chain. This reaction can be initiated by various species, including cations, anions, or radicals, depending on the type of cyclic monomer and the desired polymer.

ROP is a versatile polymerization technique that allows for the synthesis of a wide range of polymers with diverse properties. It is particularly useful for producing polymers that are difficult to synthesize through other polymerization methods. Examples of monomers that undergo ring-opening polymerization include cyclic ethers like ethylene oxide, lactones such as caprolactone, cyclic amides like caprolactam, and cyclic siloxanes.

The mechanism of ROP typically involves the attack of an initiator on the cyclic monomer, leading to the opening of the ring and the formation of a reactive species. This reactive species then propagates by adding more cyclic monomers, extending the polymer chain. The process can be controlled to achieve specific molecular weights and architectures of the resulting polymers. Polymers produced via ROP find applications in various fields, including biodegradable plastics, drug delivery systems, coatings, and advanced materials.