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.