Addition polymers

What are polymers?

Long chain molecules formed by many repeating monomers.

What is addition polymerisation?

The double bonds in alkenes are broken and they join to form a polymer.

How can addition polymerisation be written?

XXX.

What must you include when asked for the formula of a polymer?

The brackets and an n.

What is a substituted alkene and can these be used in addition polymerisation?

• An alkene where one of the hydrogens has been substituted for another group.

• They can be used to form addition polymers such as poly(chloroethene).

How are addition polymers named according to IUPAC rules?

Poly(X), where X is the monomer, e.g., poly(but-2-ene). If the monomer name does not have a number then it can be written without brackets.

Are addition polymers very reactive?

No, as they are saturated and usually non-polar.

Are addition polymers rigid/strong and if so, why?

Yes, they can be if chains can be held closely together by van der waals forces. Branched polymers or polymers with phenyl groups are more flexible as chains are unable to pack as closely together.

What is poly(chloroethene) also known as and what are some of it's properties/uses?

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride)

• There are permanent dipole-dipole forces between chains due to the difference in electronegativity between Cl and C.

• PVC is therefore hard but brittle and is used for window frames/door pipes.

What are plasticisers and how do they work?

Chemicals that can be added to polymers to force polymer chains apart and reduce the strength of intermolecular forces between the chains, making them more flexible.

What are some uses of plasticised PVC?

• Cable insulation

• Flooring tiles

• Clothing