Poly‐para‐xylelene: Its chemistry and application in coating technology

The chemistry of p ‐xylelene and of its analogues has been reviewed. Its modes of formation and polymerization to poly‐ p ‐xylelene have been described, and the initiation and hypothetical termination steps have been discussed. The reactions taking place in the gas phase and in the deposited film are contrasted with those taking place in solutions. The problems of crystallization of the polymer simultaneously proceeding with its growth have been stressed. Finally, the properties of poly‐ p ‐xylelenes and their application in the coating industry have been described in some detail, emphasizing the special advantages of gas‐deposition leading directly to a solid and coherent film. Some future fields of application of this technique have been outlined.