cyclopolymerized

Cyclopolymerization is a type of polymerization reaction where monomers containing at least two polymerizable functional groups undergo an intramolecular cyclization followed by intermolecular polymerization. This process leads to the formation of polymers with cyclic units incorporated into the main chain. The key characteristic is the formation of ring structures as part of the polymer backbone during the polymerization process. This contrasts with conventional linear polymerization where monomers simply link end-to-end without significant ring formation within the chain.

The mechanism typically involves the initial polymerization of one functional group, followed by the intramolecular cyclization of the second functional group onto the growing polymer chain. This cyclization step creates a cyclic structure within the polymer backbone. The resulting polymers often exhibit unique properties such as increased rigidity, thermal stability, and altered solubility compared to their non-cyclized counterparts. The size and structure of the cyclic units depend on the specific monomer used and the reaction conditions.

Common monomers that undergo cyclopolymerization include dienes, divinyl ethers, and diallyl compounds. The reaction can be initiated by various methods, including free radical, cationic, anionic, and coordination polymerization. The choice of initiator and solvent can significantly influence the degree of cyclization and the molecular weight of the resulting polymer. Cyclopolymers find applications in various fields, including advanced materials, coatings, and membranes, due to their specialized properties.