Polymeerikondensaatioreaktioiden

Polymeerikondensaatioreaktioiden are a class of polymerization reactions in which monomer units join together with the concomitant elimination of a small molecule, most often water, methanol, or hydrogen chloride. The process involves the nucleophilic attack of a polymerizable functional group, such as a hydroxyl or amine, on the electrophilic site of another monomer, leading to the formation of a new covalent bond and the release of a by‑product. Because each condensation step reduces the stoichiometric mass of the forming polymer, the molecular weight is limited by the extent of side‑group loss.

Typical examples include the synthesis of polyesters, which are formed by reacting diols with dicarboxylic acids or their anhydrides; polyamides (nylons), formed from diamines and dicarboxylic acids; and polyurethanes, derived from diisocyanates and polyols. In all of these cases, the elimination is usually an irreversible step, providing thermodynamic driving force for the reaction and allowing the polymer to reach high degrees of polymerization under suitable conditions.

Industrial applications of condensation polymers span from packaging materials and textiles to medical implants and high‑performance composites. Key process parameters—temperature, catalyst choice, monomer purity, and removal of the small‑molecule by‑product—directly influence the polymer’s molecular weight distribution, mechanical properties, and thermal stability.