askelkasvupolymeerisaatio

Askelkasvupolymeerisaatio is a method of polymerization where monomers add to a growing polymer chain in a stepwise manner. This process is also known as step-growth polymerization. Unlike chain-growth polymerization, where monomers add rapidly to an active center, in step-growth polymerization, any two reactive species can react with each other, regardless of whether they are monomers, oligomers, or polymers. The molecular weight of the polymer increases gradually throughout the reaction. This type of polymerization is characterized by the formation of a low molecular weight species as a byproduct, such as water or methanol, which is eliminated during the reaction. Common examples of step-growth polymerization include polycondensation and polyaddition reactions. Polyesters, polyamides (like nylon), and polycarbonates are typically synthesized via step-growth polymerization. The reaction kinetics are often described by a distribution of molecular weights at any given point in time. This method is versatile and allows for the synthesis of a wide range of polymers with varying properties.