polymerization

Question

Polymerization of ethene proceeds via which mechanism (typical Ziegler–Natta)?

RankGuru · Accepted Answer

1. **Catalyst**: Ziegler–Natta catalysts ($TiCl_4 / Al(C_2H_5)_3$) allow for low-pressure polymerization.
2. **Mechanism Step 1**: The ethene monomer coordinates with the vacant site on the transition metal ($Ti$).
3. **Mechanism Step 2**: The coordinated monomer then **inserts** into the existing metal-carbon bond of the growing polymer chain.
4. **Advantage**: This **coordination-insertion pathway** allows for high degree of control over branching and stereoregularity (forming High-Density Polyethylene, HDPE).

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polymerization

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