Polymers

Question 1

What is meant by the definition condensation polymerisation and give examples.

Answer 1

• When two or more monomers join together, to form a polymer, it results in a small molecule given off as a side product, eg: HCl or H2O.
• Types include: polyester, polyamide; polypeptide.
• Condensation polymers may be photodegradable as the C=O absorbs radiation.

Question 2

What are polyamides?

Answer 2

• Reaction between diamines and dicarboxylic acids.
• Eg: Nylon 6,6 - from 1,6-diaminohexane and hexanedoic acid.

•Eg: Kevlar - from benzene-1,4-diamine and benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid.
Can be used clothing such as: bullet proof vests.

Question 3

What are polyesters?

Answer 3

• Made from dicarboxylic acids and diols.
• Eg: Terylene (PET) - from benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid and ethanediol.

•Eg: Poly(lactic acid).
*It’s possible for polyesters and amides to form from one polymer, if the monomer contains both functional groups needed.

Question 4

How can polyesters and amides be hydrolysed?

Answer 4

• By base and acid hydrolysis.
• Acid produces the the original dicarboxylic acids and diol/diamine.
• Eg: H2SO4
• Used easily with polyamides.

•Base produces dicarboxylic acid salt.

• Eg: NaOH
• Used easily with polyesters.

Question 5

What are the two types of polymerisation?

Answer 5

• Addition

* Condensation

Question 6

How do chemists minimise environmental waste?

Answer 6

• Using biodegradable polymers from renewable sources.

* Eg: poly(lactic acid).