Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
Published on: June 20, 2019
Beyond molecular weight: A novel chain-rigidity-driven polymerization and precipitation for efficient removal of
Wenxuan Jiang1, Qilong Jia1, Xinwei Sun1
1School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
Abstract:
Reactive oxygen species-induced polymerization of dissolved organic pollutants (DOPs) offers an innovative wastewater treatment strategy. However, existing research primarily focused on the polymerization degree (PD), with insufficient attention to phase separation mechanism, thus hindering large-scale polymerization and precipitation (P&P). This study reveals a novel pathway from the perspective of phase separation for the first time: achieving large-scale P&P of DOPs at low PD by regulating chain rigidity and non-covalent interaction, where ordered frameworks and heterogeneous nucleation significantly lower the precipitation energy barrier. Consequently, the process achieves 100% removal of nine typical DOPs across multiple concentrations via P&P, with an 83% higher product yield and 95% lower oxidant consumption compared to conventional polymerization pathways. The applicability was demonstrated through three actual wastewaters. The new mechanism may promote disruptive shift in polymerization design from PD to chain structure, opening a novel technological pathway for achieving low-carbon, economical wastewater control and resource recovery.
Related Concept Videos
Polymers: Molecular Weight Distribution
Molecular Weight of Step-Growth Polymers
As the step-growth polymerization involves step-wise condensation of monomers, the molecular weight also builds up eventually. Consequently, high molecular weight polymers are obtained at the late stages of the polymerization, where 99% of monomers have been consumed.
The extent of the...
Determination of Molar Masses of Polymers I
Anionic Chain-Growth Polymerization: Overview
Determination of Molar Masses of Polymers II
Free-Radical Chain Reaction and Polymerization of Alkenes

