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Condensation Polymerization

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Condensation Polymerization is a chemical process that forms polymers by linking monomers and releasing a small molecule, such as water or alcohol. This step-growth mechanism is vital for producing materials like Nylon, Polyester, and Polycarbonates. It involves stages of initiation, propagation, and termination, with the presence of bifunctional or polyfunctional monomers being crucial. Understanding this process is fundamental in organic chemistry and material synthesis.

Fundamentals of Condensation Polymerization

Condensation Polymerization is a fundamental chemical process where monomers, which are molecules capable of binding to similar or different molecules, react to form larger chains called polymers. During this reaction, a small molecule, typically water or alcohol, is released, hence the term 'condensation'. This type of polymerization is crucial for creating a variety of polymers, such as Nylon, Polyester, and Polycarbonates. The process requires monomers that contain at least two reactive functional groups—specific atomic arrangements that enable chemical reactions—allowing them to join together through covalent bonds to form the polymer backbone.
Laboratory with round bottom flask connected to a reflux condenser, digital thermometer, colored test tubes and magnetic stirrer.

Mechanism of Condensation Polymerization

The mechanism of Condensation Polymerization involves a step-growth polymerization process where bifunctional or polyfunctional monomers link to form dimers, trimers, and eventually long polymer chains. The reaction begins with the formation of an active center, which then propagates by reacting with more monomers, elongating the polymer chain. The polymerization continues until the active centers become inactive, terminating the chain growth. The general reaction can be represented as \((-M-A-B-)n \rightarrow (-M-A-B-)n + n HX\), where \(n\) is the number of repeating units, \(M\) represents the monomer, \(A\) and \(B\) are the functional groups, and \(HX\) is the small molecule by-product.

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00

Polymers such as Nylon, Polyester, and Polycarbonates are produced through the ______ process.

condensation polymerization

01

Condensation Polymerization: Monomer Requirements

Requires bifunctional or polyfunctional monomers with two or more reactive functional groups.

02

Condensation Polymerization: By-Product Formation

Produces a small molecule by-product, commonly HX, during the polymerization process.

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