Polymer Synthesis
There are two ma.io r t"w.e s of ~.o l-v merizationm ethods used
to convert small molecules (monomers) into polymers. These
methods were originally referred to as addition and condensation
polymerization. Depending on the author, addition
~olvmerizationis now called chain, chain-prowth, or chainieaction
polymerization. Condensation is now
referred to as step-prowth or step-reaction polymerization.
The major distinEtionj hctnern these two methods. which,
hupefully, will become apparent irm the tollowing d:icussion.
result irum the differenrrs in the kinelics of the pdymeri~stion
reactions.