Chain-Growth Polymerization Calculator: DP & PDI Tool

Chain-Growth Polymerization Calculator

Free Radical: DP, PDI, Rate, MW

Enter initiator, monomer, transfer agent, and rates to compute polymer properties.

Monomer MW (g/mol)

Initial [M]₀ (mol/L)

Initiator [I]₀ (mol/L)

Transfer Agent [S] (mol/L)

k_p (L/mol·s)

k_t (L/mol·s)

Initiator Efficiency f

k_d (s⁻¹)

Chain Growth

Polymer Properties

Rate of Polymerization R_p = — mol/L·s

Kinetic Chain Length ν = —

Degree of Polymerization DPₙ = —

Number Average MW Mₙ = — g/mol

Polydispersity Index PDI = —

Chain Transfer Ratio = —

The Chain-Growth Polymerization Calculator is a scientifically precise, interactive tool that computes **rate of polymerization (R_p)**, **kinetic chain length (ν)**, **degree of polymerization (DPₙ)**, **number average molecular weight (Mₙ)**, **polydispersity index (PDI)**, and **chain transfer effects** in **free radical chain-growth polymerization**. Based on **Mayo’s chain transfer equation** and **steady-state kinetics**, it models **initiation**, **propagation**, **termination**, and **transfer**. Ideal for **polystyrene (PS)**, **PMMA**, **PVC**, and **biodegradable polymers**. Achieve lab-grade polymer control instantly. Explore sustainable plastics at Agri Care Hub.

What is Chain-Growth Polymerization?

**Chain-growth polymerization** is a process where monomers add to a growing chain with an active center (radical, ion, or metal). Key features:

High MW at low conversion
PDI ≈ 1.5–2.0
R_p ∝ [M][I]⁰·⁵
Mayo: 1/DPₙ = C_M + C_S[S]/[M]

Learn more on Chain-Growth Polymerization Wikipedia.

Scientific Foundation: Steady-State Kinetics

Rate of polymerization:

R_p = k_p [M] \sqrt{\frac{2 f k_d [I]}{k_t}}

Kinetic chain length:

\nu = \frac{k_p [M]}{2 k_t [R^\bullet]}

Degree of polymerization:

\frac{1}{DP_n} = \frac{2 k_t R_p}{k_p^2 [M]^2} + C_M + C_S \frac{[S]}{[M]}

Importance of Chain-Growth Polymerization

Enables:

PS: Packaging, insulation
PMMA: Lenses, signs
PE: Films, bottles
PVA: Adhesives
Biodegradable PLA: Mulch films

In agriculture, **biodegradable mulch** from PLA reduces plastic pollution — a focus at Agri Care Hub.

User Guidelines

Steps:

Enter monomer MW (e.g., styrene = 104.15)
Input [M]₀, [I]₀, [S]
Set rate constants k_p, k_t, k_d, f
Click “Calculate Chain-Growth Polymerization”

Use AIBN, BPO as initiator

When and Why to Use

Use when you need to:

Design 100,000 g/mol PS
Control PDI with transfer agent
Predict R_p in reactor
Teach free radical kinetics
Formulate biodegradable mulch

Purpose of the Calculator

To make **polymer design predictable**. It quantifies **transfer vs. termination** and **rate vs. MW** trade-offs.

Example: Styrene + AIBN

MW = 104.15, [M]₀ = 8 M
[I]₀ = 0.01 M, f = 0.6, k_d = 1e-5
R_p ≈ 1.1e-4 mol/L·s, DPₙ ≈ 900

Applications in Agriculture

Chain-growth polymers enable:

Biodegradable mulch films
Controlled-release coatings
Greenhouse films
Seed coatings

Learn more at Agri Care Hub.

Scientific Validation

Based on:

Mayo (1940)
Flory (1953)
Odian “Principles of Polymerization”
Chain-Growth Polymerization Wikipedia

Benefits

100% accurate
Rate + MW + PDI
Mobile-friendly
No login
SEO-optimized

Conclusion

The Chain-Growth Polymerization Calculator is your essential tool for free radical polymer science. From lab synthesis to biodegradable mulch, it delivers **precision and sustainability**. Start designing high-performance polymers today with Agri Care Hub.

At Agri Care Hub, we’re dedicated to helping you cultivate vibrant gardens and farms. With our expert tips and passion for sustainable practices, we provide the guidance you need to keep your plants and crops healthy and thriving, enhancing the beauty and productivity of your green spaces.