Question

Unit3: Polymerisation techniqu... X Please answer the following questions: 1. State the main differences between polymerisation of any monomer in Emulsion and Suspension techniques? 2. State the main differences between polymerisation of any monomer in Bulk and Solution techniques?

Answer 1

1) Monomers combine to give polymers and the process is called polymerisation. Monomers are called the building blocks of polymers. In order to polymerise, the monomers should contain unsaturated bonds or any functional groups. Suspension and emulsion polymerisation are two forms of polymerisation. The main differences between the two are-

Suspension polymerisation requires-

• Dispersing medium
• Monomers
• Initiators
• Stabilising agents.

Emulsion polymerisation requires-

• Water
• Monomer
• Surfactant.

2) Bulk and solution polymerization are two very important methods for synthesising polymers. The main differences are given below-

• Solution polymerization occur in presense of inert solvent and suitable catalyst. But bulk polymerization doesn’t need any additives. We only need monomer and a suitable initiator.
• Bulk polymerisation is simple and cheap. However, auto acceleration can occur. There can be problems with heat transfer during polymerisation. But in solution polymerisation, solvent will absorb heat of polymerisation. Also, auto acceleration can be avoided by this process.