Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6)

nH₂N(CH₂)₆NH₂ + nHOOC(CH₂)₄COOH → nylon 6,6 + nH₂O

Overview

Hexamethylenediamine reacts with adipic acid to form nylon 6,6 through condensation polymerization, releasing water. Each amide bond formed links the monomers into a long chain. The nylon rope trick demonstration draws a continuous nylon thread from the interface of two immiscible solutions.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Product	Water H₂O	1	(l)

Everyday Example

The nylon rope trick, where a continuous nylon strand is pulled from a beaker, is one of the most dramatic polymer demonstrations.

Industrial Importance

Nylon 6,6 is used in textiles, carpets, automotive parts, and engineering plastics. Over 3 million tonnes are produced annually.

Properties

Type: Organic
Reversible: Yes
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -28.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde Amide Formation (Acetic Acid + Ammonia) Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Bromination of Ethylene Buchwald-Hartwig Amination Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Cope Rearrangement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6)?

The balanced equation is: nH₂N(CH₂)₆NH₂ + nHOOC(CH₂)₄COOH → nylon 6,6 + nH₂O.

What type of reaction is Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6)?

Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) is a organic reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.

Is Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) exothermic or endothermic?

Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -28.0 kJ/mol.