Degree of polymerization

Description

The degree of polymerization (DP) is the number of monomers in the polymer molecule. The degree of polymerization, or chain length, of a polymer affects many of its properties, such as solution viscosity, density, strength, flexibility and porosity.

Synonyms and Related Terms

DP; grado de polimerización (Esp.); degré de polymérisation (Fr.); gradi di polimerizzazione (It.); grau de polimerização (Port.)

Authority

• Theodore J. Reinhart, 'Glossary of Terms', Engineered Plastics, ASM International, 1988

• Richard S. Lewis, Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 10th ed., 1993

• Hoechst Celanese Corporation, Dictionary of Fiber & Textile Technology (older version called Man-made Fiber and Textile Dictionary, 1965), Hoechst Celanese Corporation, Charlotte NC, 1990