Pressure-Induced Polymerization: Addition and Condensation Reactions

Under pressure of 1-100 GPa, unsaturated organic molecules tend to form covalent bond to each other for a negative enthalpy change, which often produces polymeric materials with extended carbon skeleton. The polymerization reactions typically happen in crystal, which promotes the topochemical process. This review summarized the topochemical polymerization processes of several alkynes, aromatics, and alkynylphenyl compounds, including the critical crystal structures before the reaction, bonding process, and the structure of the products. Secondly, this review also summarized the condensation reaction identified in the polymerization process, including the elimination of small molecules such as NH3, etc.

Automated summary

Under pressure, unsaturated organic molecules tend to form covalent bonds to polymerize and create polymeric materials with extended carbon skeleton. The polymerization reactions typically occur in crystals, promoting the topochemical process.