1) What different products can be obtained via condensation polymerization? 2) What are their compositions or general structures?

3) What reactions are involved?

Condensation polymerization yields polymers whose recurring units lack certain atoms present in the original monomer. The reaction takes place by the combination of two or more units and the elimination of a small molecule such as water, methanol, or hydrogen chloride. The product formed in a condensation reaction is determined by the functionality of the monomers involved (i.e. the average number of reactive groups in each monomer molecule): Mono-functional monomers produce only low molecular weight compounds that, while polymers, are not generally processable plastics. Bi-functional monomers give linear polymers (i.e. terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol react and produce another bi-functional molecule, polyester). Poly-functional monomers produce branched or crosslinked polymers and can lead to either thermoplastic or thermosetting products, depending on the functionality of the reactants. Examples: Nylons (polyamides), Polyesters, alkyds, and phenol-formaldehyde resins

Product
Polyester

Properties
Polyester fabrics and fibers are extremely strong. Very durable: resistant to most chemicals, stretching and shrinking, wrinkle resistant, mildew and abrasion resistant Hydrophobic in nature and quick drying. It can be used for insulation by manufacturing hollow fibers. Retains its shape and hence is good for making outdoor clothing for harsh climates. Easily washed and dried. Exceptionally strong, Elastic Abrasion resistant Lustrous Resistant to damage from oil and many chemicals Can be precolored or dyed in wide range of colors Resilient; Low in moisture absorbency Filament yarns provide smooth, soft, long-lasting fabrics Spun yarns lend fabrics light weight and warmth Good strength, heat stability and impact resistance

Applications
Bottles, construction, auto-repair putty, laminates, skis, fishing rods, boats and aircraft components, coatings, decorative fixtures

Nylon (Polyamide)

Fibers, gears, sutures, fishing lines, watch straps, tires, packaging, unlubricated bearings

Phenolics

Impregnating resins, brake lining, rubber resins, electrical

Alkyds

Polycarbonates

Polyurethanes

Polyethers

Epoxy resins

High resistance to chemical corrosion and moisture penetration Excellent electrical and thermal properties Versatility in flexibility and rigidity Good chemical resistance High refractive index Excellent chemical, thermal and electrical properties Dimensional stability Transparent Self-extinguishing Resistant to staining Good creep resistance Extreme versatility when combined with other resins Good physical, chemical, and electrical properties Excellent corrosion resistance to common acids, alkalies, and salts Can be seam-welded and machined to fit any type, shape or size of structure Excellent chemical resistance Good adhesion properties Strong and tough with low shrinkage during cure Excellent electrical properties Good heat resistance

components, structural board, laminates, glues, adhesive binders, molds Electrical insulation, electronic components, putty, glass-reinforced parts, paints Replacement for metals, safety helmets, lenses, electrical components, photographic film, die casting, insulators

Insulation, foam inner liners for clothing, rocket fuel binders, elastomers, adhesives Coatings, pump gears, water-meter parts, bearing surfaces, valves

Laminates, adhesives, flooring, linings, propellers, surface coatings, filamentwound structures

Polyesters obtained either by the self-condensation of a hydroxyl carboxylic acid or by the reaction of a dicarboxylic acid and a difunctional alcohol. Polyamides obtained by the condensation of a diamine with a dicarboxylic acid Phenolics made from almost any phenolic body and an aldehyde Alkyds particular kind of polyester formed by the reaction of polyhydric alcohols and polybasic acids Polycarbonates special variety of polyester in which a derivative of carbonic acid is substituted for adipic, phthalic or other acid and a diphenol is substituted for the more conventional glycols Polyurethanes obtained by the condensation of a glycol or difunctional alcohol with a diisocyanate Polyethers when a compound containing an epoxide group reacts with a difunctional alcohol Epoxy resins contain an epoxide group at either end. Most common epoxy resins are produced from a reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol-A

Reactions / General Structures: Polyamide Reaction

Polyester Reaction

Polycarbonates (General Structure)

Polyethers

Polyurethanes

Epoxy resins

Alkyd Resins

ALKYD RESIN

Phenolics (General Structure)