At this point, the process classification scheme based on the consideration of the aggregation state of the monomer carrier phase will be used. From this point of view, there are three main families of processes:
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a) Slurry Processes (SP), in which the catalyst and polymer particles are suspended in some form of "slurry" formed by a diluent or carrier containing the dissolved monomer and the solid in suspension to form the "slurry".
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b) Processes with the Monomer in Gas Phase in contact with the polymerizing particles (Gas Phase Processes, GPP): the particles are suspended in a gaseous mixture formed mainly by monomer.
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c) Bulk Processes (BP): the solid polymerizing particles are suspended in a liquid medium made up of the condensed monomer, without the presence of carriers or diluents, and each of these categories includes different processes depending on the form of energy extraction and the geometrical configuration of the reactor. On the other hand, the different activity levels of the catalyst used in the different processes give them different requirements and procedures, as will be seen below.