enesepolümeriseerumine

Enesepolümeriseerumine, also known as self-polymerization or auto-polymerization, is a chemical reaction where a monomer undergoes polymerization without the addition of an external initiator. This process occurs when the monomer itself possesses sufficient reactivity to initiate the chain growth. Typically, enesepolümeriseerumine is observed in monomers that contain functional groups capable of forming reactive species, such as free radicals, anions, or cations, under specific conditions.

The driving force for enesepolümeriseerumine is often the relief of strain or the formation of more stable species. For instance, cyclic monomers like epoxides or lactones can undergo ring-opening polymerization due to the inherent strain in their cyclic structures. In other cases, monomers might have inherent instability that leads to spontaneous initiation. Temperature, pressure, or the presence of trace impurities can sometimes trigger this self-initiation.

Monomers that readily undergo enesepolümeriseerumine include those with strained rings or highly reactive double bonds. Examples include styrene under certain conditions, vinylidene chloride, and certain acrylates. The rate of enesepolümeriseerumine can be influenced by factors such as temperature, concentration, and the presence of inhibitors that can quench the reactive species. Understanding and controlling enesepolümeriseerumine is crucial in polymer synthesis to prevent uncontrolled polymerization, ensure product quality, and maintain safety during storage and handling of monomers. It can be a desirable pathway for producing polymers without the need for added initiators, simplifying the polymerization process.