condensation polymerization
Quick Summary
Condensation polymerization is a chemical process where monomers, or small molecules, link together to form a large polymer chain. Unlike addition polymerization, condensation polymerization involves the elimination of a small molecule, often water, with each step of the process.12
This type of polymerization is used to create various synthetic resins, such as phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde. These resins are formed using formaldehyde and other monomers like phenol, urea, or melamine. The resulting polymers are thermosetting, meaning they form permanent three-dimensional networks that do not melt upon reheating and are widely used as adhesives in wood products and as plastics.3
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polymerizationIn condensation polymerization, each step of the process is accompanied by the formation of a molecule of some simple compound, often water. In addition polymerization, monomers react to form a polymer without the formation of by-products. Addition polymerizations usually are carried out in the presence of…
Read MoreIn condensation polymerization, each step of the process is accompanied by the formation of a molecule of some simple compound, often water. In addition polymerization, monomers react to form a polymer without the formation of by-products. Addition polymerizations usually are carried out in the presence of…
Read More- chemistry of industrial polymersIndustrial polymerization methods
Condensation polymerization, on the other hand, is endothermic—that is, the reaction requires an input of heat from an external source. In these cases the reactor must supply heat in order to maintain a practical reaction rate.
Read MoreCondensation polymerization, on the other hand, is endothermic—that is, the reaction requires an input of heat from an external source. In these cases the reactor must supply heat in order to maintain a practical reaction rate.
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