Polymerization

Source: Vy M. Dong and Jan Riedel, Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA

Polymers are made from macromolecules, which are composed of repeating units (the so called monomeric units). In our modern world, polymers play an important role. One of the first important polymers was nylon, which is a polyamide. It found widespread application in tooth brushes and stockings.

A hollow, long strand of polyamide is obtained.

This experiment showcases in a vivid way the synthesis of a polymer in a simple fashion. The condensation polymerization of 1,6-diaminohexane and sebacoyl chloride gives a polyamide-6,10, which polymerizes at the interface of two liquid layers. This surface polymerization will form a hollow strand of polyamide, after pulling the polymer from the interface and wrapping it around a glass rod to wind it.

Polymers and polyamide find a variety of different uses in our daily life. Initially used for