Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)

Pulling a continuous strand of nylon from an interface

Organic Synthesis Intermediate (High School) 30 min ~$18.00

Objective

Synthesize nylon 6,10 at the interface of two immiscible solutions and pull a continuous strand from the beaker.

Background

The nylon rope trick is a dramatic demonstration of interfacial polymerization. When a solution of hexamethylenediamine (aqueous) is layered with sebacoyl chloride (in hexane), nylon forms at the interface. The polymer film can be continuously pulled out as a thread or rope.

Safety Warnings

  • Hexane is highly flammable — no open flames
  • Sebacoyl chloride is corrosive and moisture-sensitive
  • Hexamethylenediamine is an irritant
  • Work in a fume hood

Required PPE

goggles gloves lab_coat

Materials

  • Hexamethylenediamine (3 g)
    Dissolved in 50 mL water
  • Sebacoyl chloride (2 mL)
    In 50 mL hexane
  • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (1 g)
    Added to the aqueous layer
  • Hexane (50 mL)
    Solvent for acid chloride

Equipment

250 mL beaker Forceps or glass rod Paper towel

Procedure

1

Prepare the aqueous solution: dissolve 3 g hexamethylenediamine and 1 g NaOH in 50 mL water in the beaker.

3 min Irritant — avoid contact
2

Carefully layer the sebacoyl chloride/hexane solution on top of the aqueous solution. Do not mix.

3 min Work in fume hood
3

Observe the nylon film forming at the interface between the two layers.

2 min
4

Using forceps, gently pull the nylon film from the center of the interface. A continuous strand should follow.

5 min
5

Wind the nylon strand around a glass rod, continuously pulling from the interface.

10 min
6

Rinse the collected nylon with water and blot dry. Examine the fiber properties.

5 min

Expected Results

A continuous strand of nylon can be pulled from the interface for several meters. The polymer is white, slightly elastic, and strong. The reaction continues as long as both reagents are present.

Cleanup

Allow remaining solution to react. Dispose of hexane waste in organic solvent waste. Neutralize the aqueous layer. Rinse all glassware.

Details

Category
Organic Synthesis
Difficulty
Intermediate (High School)
Duration
30 min
Est. Cost
$18.00
Steps
6
Materials
4

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)?
Synthesize nylon 6,10 at the interface of two immiscible solutions and pull a continuous strand from the beaker.
How difficult is Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)?
This experiment is rated as Intermediate (High School). It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)?
Key safety precautions include: Hexane is highly flammable — no open flames; Sebacoyl chloride is corrosive and moisture-sensitive; Hexamethylenediamine is an irritant.
What materials are needed for Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)?
The main materials required are: Hexamethylenediamine, Sebacoyl chloride, Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Hexane.
What results should I expect from Making Nylon 6,10 (Nylon Rope Trick)?
A continuous strand of nylon can be pulled from the interface for several meters. The polymer is white, slightly elastic, and strong. The reaction continues as long as both reagents are present.