Polymer Synthesis: Addition and Condensation Mechanisms
Students will learn about polymers as large molecules made from repeating units, focusing on common synthetic polymers (plastics) and their formation.
Key Questions
- Distinguish between addition and condensation polymerisation by drawing the repeat unit and small-molecule by-product for each, applying this to polyethylene, nylon-6,6, and polyester as representative examples.
- Analyse how the degree of branching and stereochemistry (isotactic, syndiotactic, atactic) of an addition polymer chain determine its crystallinity, melting point, and mechanical strength.
- Evaluate the chemical basis for selective degradation of condensation polymers (hydrolysis) versus the relative stability of addition polymers, comparing biodegradability and discussing implications for sustainable materials design.
MOE Syllabus Outcomes
Suggested Methodologies
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