Preparation of Nylon

Purpose: The purpose of this lab is to synthesis nylon 6,6 by mixing an acid and an
amine together.

Reaction: The synthesis of nylon 6,6 is achieved by polymerization mechanism.

Evidence of Product: 10 mL of Hexamethlenediamine/sodium hydroxide solution is

added to a 50 mL beaker. Using a Pasteur pipet 10 mL of adipoyl chloride/hexane
solution was slowly added down the side of the beaker. After a few seconds of a
white film appears at the interface of the two solutions.

Conclusion: A pair of tweezers was used to pinch of a small portion of the white film.
The white film that was formed was nylon. As the tweezers was pulled up the nylon
was still connected. Long strips of nylon was obtained and placed on paper towels
to dry. The nylon strips that were obtained were then washed several times with
water.

Post Lab Questions:

1. What chemicals may decompose nylon fabric over time? Strong acids.
2. What other common synthetic fiber is made via a condensation reaction
polymerization? Polyester.