polükondensatsioonipolümeerideks

Polükondensatsioonipolümeerideks is the Estonian term for polycondensation polymers. These are polymers formed through a condensation polymerization reaction, where monomers with at least two functional groups react with each other to form a polymer chain, releasing a small molecule such as water, methanol, or hydrogen chloride as a byproduct. This process is distinct from addition polymerization, which involves the direct addition of monomers without the elimination of any atoms.

The monomers used in polycondensation typically contain reactive groups like hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), amino (-NH2), or ester (-COO-) groups. During the reaction, these functional groups combine, forming covalent bonds between the monomers and creating a repeating unit in the polymer chain. The small molecule byproduct is usually removed from the reaction mixture, driving the polymerization forward.

Common examples of polycondensation polymers include polyesters, polyamides (like nylon), polycarbonates, and polyurethanes. Polyesters are formed from monomers containing hydroxyl and carboxyl groups, while polyamides are created from monomers with amino and carboxyl groups. These polymers have a wide range of applications, from textiles and plastics to adhesives and coatings, due to their diverse properties which can be tailored by selecting different monomers. The molecular weight of polycondensation polymers is controlled by the extent of the reaction; achieving high molecular weights requires very high monomer purity and efficient removal of the condensation product.