2.

Classification of Polymers Based On Their Formation

Processes
b. Condensation Polymers
• Condensation polymers are formed when two different
types of monomer co-polymerize with the elimination of
small molecules, such as water.
• The resulting polymer contains ester or peptide
linkages at regular intervals along the polymer chain.
• Each of the monomers involved has a functional group at
each end of the molecule.
2. Classification of Polymers Based On Their Formation Processes
b. Condensation Polymers
1) Polyamide (Nylon)
• Polyamide is made from the monomers dicarboxylic acid and
diamine.
2. Classification of Polymers Based On Their Formation Processes
b. Condensation Polymers
2) Polyester(Terylene )
• Terylene is made from monomers benzene 1,4-dicarboxylic
acid and 1,2-ethanediol

• From two examples above, we can derive the general

formula of condensation reaction is :
n monomers → n polymers + (n-1) water
2. Classification of Polymers Based On Their Formation Processes
b. Condensation Polymers
Dacron (Polyester)

• Dacron is also a condensation polymer

Ethylene Glycol (1,2ethanediol) para Terephthalic acid

Dacron is an example of a polyester

• It is also a copolymer since it is made from two

different monomers
3. Classification of Polymers Based On Type of Monomers
a. Homopolymers
• Homopolymers are polymers formed from a single type of
monomer. For examples : Protein Polyethene and PVC
• Most addition polymers are homopolymers

Vinyl chloride

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Evi Elfrida (Organic)

3. Classification of Polymers Based On Type of Monomers
b. Co-polymers or Heteropolymers
• Co-polymers or Heteropolymers are products of
polymerization of two or more different monomers.
• The formation of co-polymer happens at high pressure and
high temperature along with the presence of catalyst
3. Classification of Polymers Based On Thermal Resistance
a. Thermoplastic Polymers
• Thermoplastic polymers can be melted and
cannot stand at high temperature.
• Examples : Polyethene, PVC etc

b. Thermosetting Polymers
• Thermosetting polymers are heat resistant
and cannot be melted.
• This makes them difficult for recycling.
SELF PRACTICE
1. A polymer is made by linking monomers 1,4-butandiol and
1,3-propanedicarboxylic acid.
a. Write the condensation reaction
b. Write the polymer structure produced