Here’s a clear explanation of common radical initiators without using chemical equations:
1. Organic Peroxides
- Compounds with a weak oxygen-oxygen bond.
- Break apart easily to form radicals.
- Examples: benzoyl peroxide, di-tert-butyl peroxide.
- Mainly used to start polymerizations.
2. Azo Compounds
- Contain a nitrogen-nitrogen double bond.
- Decompose upon heating to release nitrogen gas and radicals.
- Example: AIBN.
- Commonly used in polymer chemistry for controlled radical formation.
3. Peresters
- Similar to peroxides but contain an ester group.
- Break down to form radicals when heated.
- Example: t-butyl peroxybenzoate.
4. Inorganic Initiators
- Certain inorganic salts and peroxides can produce radicals.
- Example: potassium persulfate, hydrogen peroxide.
- Often used in water-based radical reactions.
5. Light- or Heat-Induced Halogens
- Some halogen molecules can split into radicals when exposed to ultraviolet light or heat.
- Examples: chlorine and bromine.
- Useful for radical halogenation reactions.
These initiators are chosen based on how easily they form radicals and the temperature or conditions required.