lahupolümerisatsiooni

Lahupolümerisatsioon, also known as ring-opening polymerization (ROP), is a type of chain-growth polymerization where monomers that are cyclic molecules react to form a linear polymer. Unlike conventional chain-growth polymerization where a small, stable monomer adds to a growing chain, ROP involves the opening of a ring structure within the monomer. This process typically requires an initiator, which can be cationic, anionic, or radical, or in some cases, coordination-insertion mechanisms are involved. The driving force for the ring-opening is often the release of ring strain present in the cyclic monomer. Common examples of monomers that undergo ROP include epoxides, lactones, lactams, and cyclic siloxanes. The resulting polymers can have a wide range of properties depending on the monomer used and the polymerization conditions. This method is particularly useful for synthesizing polymers with specific architectures and functionalities, such as polyesters, polyethers, and polyamides. The control over molecular weight and polydispersity can be achieved, making ROP a valuable tool in polymer synthesis for applications in materials science, biodegradable polymers, and drug delivery systems.