Anionic Polymerization Calculator

The Anionic Polymerization Calculator is a scientifically precise, interactive tool that computes **number average molecular weight (Mₙ)**, **degree of polymerization (DPₙ)**, **polydispersity index (PDI)**, and **chain length** in **living anionic polymerization**. Based on **Szwarc’s living polymer theory** and **Flory’s equal reactivity principle**, it assumes **no termination or transfer** (PDI → 1.0). Ideal for synthesizing **block copolymers**, **biodegradable plastics**, and **precision nanomaterials**. Achieve lab-grade polymer design instantly. Explore sustainable polymers at Agri Care Hub.

What is Anionic Polymerization?

**Anionic polymerization** is a chain-growth mechanism using carbanions (R⁻) as active centers. Discovered by **Michael Szwarc (1956)**, it enables **living polymers** with:

• No termination
• Controlled MW
• Narrow PDI (~1.0–1.1)
• Block copolymer synthesis

Learn more on Anionic Polymerization ScienceDirect.

Scientific Foundation: Living Kinetics

Degree of polymerization:

Molecular weight:

PDI = 1.0 (ideal living system)

Importance of Anionic Polymerization

Enables:

• Polystyrene (PS): Packaging
• Polybutadiene (PB): Tires
• SBS Block Copolymers: Adhesives
• PLA/PGA: Bioplastics
• Nanoparticles: Drug delivery

In agriculture, **biodegradable mulch films** reduce plastic waste — a focus at Agri Care Hub.

User Guidelines

Steps:

1. Enter monomer MW (e.g., styrene = 104.15)
2. Enter initial moles of monomer and initiator
3. Set conversion %
4. Click “Calculate Anionic Polymerization”

Use n-BuLi, sec-BuLi, or Grignard as initiator

When and Why to Use

Use when you need to:

• Design 10 kDa PS standard
• Synthesize ABA triblock for mulch film
• Predict PDI in lab reactor
• Teach polymer kinetics
• Scale up biodegradable packaging

Purpose of the Calculator

To make polymer design **predictable and reproducible**. It eliminates trial-and-error in **living systems** and supports **green chemistry**.

Example: Styrene with n-BuLi

• Monomer: 104.15 g/mol, 1.0 mol
• Initiator: 0.001 mol
• Conversion: 100%
• Mₙ = 104,150 g/mol, DPₙ = 1,000

Applications in Agriculture

Anionic methods enable:

• Biodegradable mulch films
• Controlled-release fertilizers
• Smart hydrogels for irrigation
• Seed coatings

Learn more at Agri Care Hub.

Scientific Validation

Based on:

• Szwarc (1956) “Living Polymers”
• Flory (1953) Principles of Polymer Chemistry
• Hadjiandreou & Jasse (1983)
• Peer-reviewed studies on Anionic Polymerization

Benefits

• 100% accurate
• PDI = 1.0
• Mobile-friendly
• No login
• SEO-optimized

Conclusion

The Anionic Polymerization Calculator is your essential tool for precision polymer science. From lab synthesis to sustainable agriculture, it delivers **living control** and **green innovation**. Start designing tomorrow’s materials today with Agri Care Hub.