Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
TYPICAL CHAIN GROWTH POLYMERS
Polymer Name
Monomer
Repeating Unit
Polyethylene
CH
2
=CH
2
-CH
2
-CH
2
-
Poly(vinyl chloride)
CH
2
=CHCl
CH
2
CH
Cl
Polypropylene
CH
2
=CH-CH
3
CH
2
CH
CH
3
Polystyrene
CH
2
=CH-C
6
H
5
CH
2
CH
C
6
H
5
Polyacrylonitrile
CH
2
=CH-CN
CH
2
CH
CN
Polybutadiene
CH
2
=CH-CH=CH
2
-CH
2
CH=CHCH
2
-
CH
3
C
O
Poly(methylmethacry-
late)
=
CH
2
CH
2
CC
OCH
3
=
O
C
OCH
3
CH
3
Polytetrafluoroethylene
CF
2
=CF
2
-CF
2
-CF
2
-
Polymers prepared by chain growth polymerization are very important indus-
trially. Polyethylene and polypropylene are used as films and containers.
Poly(vinyl chloride) serves as piping and siding for houses. Polystyrene gives
very clear, bright bottles and molded articles or may be foamed as hot drink
cups. Polyacrylonitrile is made into fibers for clothing. Polybutadiene is used
to make auto tires. Poly(methyl methacrylate) is the basis for certain auto
paints and for clear glass-like objects such as auto taillights. Polytetrafluo-
roethylene gives us nonstick cookware.
