Addition Polymerisation (OCR GCSE Chemistry A (Gateway Science Suite)): Revision Notes
7.3.1 Addition Polymerisation
Addition polymerisation is a process used to create long chains of molecules, known as polymers, from smaller units called alkene monomers.
How It Works:
Opening the Double Bond: Alkenes have a double bond between two carbon atoms. During addition polymerisation, this double bond "opens up," which allows the monomer to bond with another alkene monomer.
Forming the Chain: As more monomers join together, they form a chain. Each time a new monomer is added, the chain grows longer.
Repeating the Process: This process repeats many times, resulting in a long polymer chain made up of the original alkene monomers being built up.
When formed via addition polymerisation, all the atoms of the monomer molecules can be found in the polymer chain. In addition polymerisation the polymer is the only product so no atoms are lost to side products.
Key Points:
- All Atoms Are Included: In addition polymerisation, all the atoms from the monomer end up in the polymer chain. There are no by-products, so nothing is lost during the process.
- Only One Product: The polymer is the only product of this reaction, making the process efficient and straightforward.