Difference Between Addition And Condensation Polymerization : Addition polymerization involves the successive addition of unsaturated monomers to form a polymer without the elimination of by-products. This process occurs through the activation of double or triple bonds in monomers, yielding polymers with structures identical to their monomeric units.
On the other hand, condensation polymerization entails the linking of monomers with the simultaneous elimination of small molecules like water or alcohol. This process occurs through the reaction of functional groups on monomers, resulting in polymers with structures different from their previous monomeric structure.Difference Between Addition And Condensation Polymerization | ||
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Parameter | Addition Polymerization | Condensation Polymerization |
Process Type | Chain-growth polymerization | Step-growth polymerization |
Monomer Structure | Monomers have unsaturated bonds (double or triple). | Monomers have functional groups capable of reacting with each other (e.g., -OH, -COOH). |
By-Products | No by-products are formed during polymerization. | By-products (usually small molecules like water or alcohol) are formed during polymerization. |
Reaction Initiation | Typically initiated by heat, light, or chemical initiators. | Initiated by a reaction between functional groups on monomers (e.g., -OH and -COOH). |
Polymer Structure | The polymer chain has the same structure as the monomers. | The polymer chain may have a different structure than the monomers due to the elimination of by-products. |
Reaction Rate | The reaction rate is usually faster. | The reaction rate can be slower due to stepwise reactions and by-product elimination. |
Polymer Purity | High purity, as no by-products are formed. | May have lower purity due to the presence of by-products. |
Examples | Polyethylene, Polypropylene. | Polyester, Nylon, Polyurethane. |