polümerkondensatsiooni

Polümerkondensatsioon is a chemical process where monomers react to form a polymer with the elimination of a small molecule, such as water, methanol, or hydrogen chloride. This is in contrast to polyaddition, where monomers combine without the loss of any atoms. During polycondensation, the functional groups of the monomers react with each other, creating a new bond and releasing a byproduct. The process typically involves step-growth polymerization, meaning the polymer chains grow in a stepwise manner as monomers and oligomers react.

Common examples of polymers formed through polycondensation include polyesters, polyamides (like nylon), polycarbonates, and polyurethanes. For instance, the formation of polyester involves the reaction between a diol and a dicarboxylic acid, releasing water. Similarly, nylon is formed from the reaction of a diamine and a dicarboxylic acid, also with the elimination of water. The rate of polycondensation is often influenced by factors such as temperature, concentration of reactants, and the presence of catalysts. The molecular weight of the resulting polymer is determined by the extent of the reaction and the stoichiometry of the monomers. This polymerization method is widely used in the industrial production of many important synthetic materials.