DP  Designer Polymers

 

DP1 Synopsis

The development of condensation polymers and modern 'designer polymers'. Main topics:

• the invention of nylon, a polyamide;

• polyesters;

• aramids and Kevlar;

• designing polymers for purposes;

• the problem of disposal.

 

DP2 Learning outcomes

Candidates should be able to:

 (a)   show awareness of the historical development of condensation polymers (polyamides

           and  polyesters);

 

 (b)     distinguish between addition and condensation polymerisation;

 

(c)

predict the structural formula of the condensation polymer formed from given monomer(s), and vice versa.

(d)

describe the hydrolysis of esters (details of mechanism are not required);

(e)

recognise members of the following homologous series: amines and amides;

 

(f)

use systematic nomenclature to name primary amines;

(g)

describe and explain the characteristic properties of the amino group, including:

 

(i)

(ii)

basic nature,

acylation

(h)

 

describe the reaction between a primary amine and an acyl chloride to produce an amide;

(i)

describe the hydrolysis of amides;

(j)

recall the procedure for purifying an organic solid product;

(k)     explain the properties of condensation polymers in terms of intermolecular

          attractions.

(l)

describe and explain the effect of temperature changes on polymers;

(m)

 

relate the properties of polymers to their molecular structure, and make predictions about the properties of a polymer.

(n)

 

show awareness of the ways that chemists can modify the properties of a polymer by physical and chemical means (including the use of co-polymers, to meet particular needs.

(o)

use given data to design a polymer for a particular purpose;

(p)

 

discuss issues relating to the disposal of polymers and the conservation of resources used in polymer manufacture.