Polymer Chemistry Lab

Polymer Chemistry – Chain Growth & Properties Online

Polymer chemistry describes how small monomer molecules link into long chains that form plastics, rubbers, and fibers. This simulation lets you initiate addition and condensation polymerizations, observe chain length distribution build over time, and connect molecular weight and architecture to bulk properties like tensile strength and glass transition temperature.

What you can do in this simulation

• Initiate radical chain-growth polymerization and watch molecular weight distribution (PDI) develop
• Model condensation polymerization of a diol and diacid; track degree of polymerization vs. conversion
• Vary chain architecture (linear, branched, cross-linked) and observe effects on Tg and stiffness
• Calculate number-average (Mn) and weight-average (Mw) molecular weights from chain length histograms
• Explore copolymer sequences (alternating, block, random) and their impact on material properties

Concepts covered

addition polymerization · condensation polymerization · degree of polymerization · molecular weight distribution · glass transition temperature Tg · copolymer architecture

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