Catalyst
Catalysts play a decisive role in polymer chemistry by either initiating or accelerating the process of polymerisation. In essence, they make it possible for the reaction between the monomers to proceed more efficiently by providing a reaction pathway that lowers the energy barrier. Unlike activators, which change during the process, the catalyst remains unchanged after it has fulfilled its function.
This stability allows the catalyst to be used in repeated cycles, which further increases its economic efficiency and effectiveness in plastics production. Through the correct selection and application of catalysts, polymerisation reactions can be precisely controlled and optimised, which in turn influences the quality and the properties of the plastics produced.