This simulation shows the number fraction (blue) and weight fraction (green) of polymer chains as functions of the number of monomer units for polymerization in a batch reactor. Select “step-growth” or “free-radical” polymerization with buttons, and use sliders to set reaction rate constants, initial concentrations and reaction time. The number average chain length and the polydispersity are shown. Distributions are calculated using the Flory–Schulz model. The x and y axes ranges change as the parameters change, and the thick red tick marks on the purple axes show the plot ranges used.

Download this simulation

This simulation runs on desktop using the free Wolfram Player. Download the Wolfram Player here.

About:

This simulation was made at the University of Colorado Boulder, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering.  Authors: Rachael L. Baumann, Nathan S. Nelson

View the source code for this simulationx