Classification of Polymers (Addition, Condensation, Copolymers)
In the world of chemistry, polymers play an essential role due to their versatile properties and diverse applications. A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeating structural units called monomers. Polymers can be classified in many ways based on their origin, structure, polymerization process, and physical properties. However, one of the most practical methods of classification is based on the polymerization mechanism, which includes addition (chain-growth) polymerization, condensation (step-growth) polymerization, and copolymers.
Addition polymerization
Addition polymerization, also known as chain-growth polymerization, occurs when monomers with double or triple bonds are joined together without losing any of the smaller molecules. This type of polymerization mainly involves monomers with unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds such as alkenes and alkynes.
Let us take the example of making polyethylene from ethylene monomers. In this process, the double bonds between the carbon atoms in the ethylene molecules open up and get linked together to form a long chain polymer. The visual representation of this process can be seen in the illustration below:
C=C + C=C + C=C → -CCCCCC-
Types of addition polymerization
Addition polymerization can be further classified into different mechanisms:
- Free radical polymerization: A common type of addition polymerization uses free radicals to initiate the reaction. For example, polystyrene is made through this method.
- Cationic polymerization: A cation is needed to start the polymerization process. An example of this is the polymerization of isobutylene to form butyl rubber.
- Anionic polymerization: In this process, the anion initiates the polymerization. For example, poly(ethylene oxide) uses this method.
Condensation polymerization
Condensation polymerization, or step-growth polymerization, involves reactions between monomers with the elimination of small molecules, such as water, alcohol or hydrogen chloride. This type of polymerization usually involves monomers containing functional groups, such as alcohols, amines or carboxylic acids.
A classic example of condensation polymerization is the formation of nylon, a widely used synthetic polymer. Nylon is formed by the reaction between diamine and dicarboxylic acid. During this reaction, each bond formed results in the release of a water molecule as shown in the example below:
NH2-R-NH2 + HOOC-R'-COOH → [-NH-R-NHOC-R'-CO-] + H2O
Examples of condensation polymers
- Polyesters: These are formed by the polycondensation of dicarboxylic acids and diols. A common example is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used in plastic bottles.
- Polyamide: As mentioned earlier, nylon is a type of polyamide made from diamine and dicarboxylic acid.
- Polycarbonates: These are obtained by the reaction of bisphenol A and phosgene. They are used in making compact discs and safety glasses.
Copolymers
Copolymers are polymers made from two or more different types of monomers. The arrangement and distribution of these copolymers can give the resulting copolymers unique properties, making them widely useful in a variety of applications.
The arrangement of monomers in the copolymer chain may vary, and based on these arrangements, copolymers can be classified as follows:
- Random copolymer: Here, two or more monomers are randomly distributed along the polymer chain. An example of this is the butadiene-styrene copolymer used in automobile tyres.
- Alternating copolymers: The monomers are arranged in a regular alternating pattern. An example of this is the equimolar copolymer of maleic anhydride and styrene.
- Block copolymers: These consist of large blocks of repeating units of each type of monomer. An example of this is styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), which is used in the production of shoe soles and tires.
- Graft copolymers: These contain branches of one type of monomer grafted onto the main chain of another polymer. An example of this is grafting methyl methacrylate onto natural rubber to improve its properties.
Visual example of copolymer types
Applications of copolymers
Copolymers are used in a variety of areas due to their unique properties:
- Clothing: Copolymers increase the elasticity and strength of clothing, making them durable and comfortable.
- Pharmaceuticals: These are used in drug delivery systems to control the release of the drug in the body.
- Packaging: Copolymers provide superior barrier properties against gases and moisture, making them excellent for food packaging.
- Automotive: Used in making tires, dashboards and upholstery for improved performance and aesthetics.
Conclusion
Classifying polymers based on the polymerization process and monomer arrangement is important in understanding their behavior and determining their applications. Addition polymerization provides a route to linear polymers with strong properties used in everyday plastic products. On the other hand, condensation polymerization leads to polymers such as nylon and polyester, which are essential in clothing and engineering materials. Copolymers provide versatile solutions by incorporating different monomers, allowing targeted properties for specific applications. Understanding these mechanisms and structures provides a basis for innovations and developments in polymer chemistry and applications in various industries.