Condensation polymers

Condensation Polymers

Condensation polymers are formed by step-growth polymerization, a process of reaction where polymers are formed by a sequence of chemical reactions.
This polymerization involves a repeated condensation reaction between two different bi-functional or tri-functional monomers.
During this process, a small molecule, often water, is eliminated.

To form a condensation polymer, a carbon compound containing two -OH groups (often termed as diol) and a compound capable of forming two ester groups (often called dicarboxylic acid) are needed.
The bond formed during polymerization is known as a condensation bond or an ester linkage.
Unlike addition polymerisation, which only involves one type of monomer, condensation polymerisation involves two different types of monomers.

Nylon and polyester are examples of synthetic condensation polymers, commonly used in textiles.
Proteins, which are polypeptides, are natural condensation polymers formed by amino acids.

Condensation polymers often form more complex molecular structures than addition polymers. They can exist as linear chains or cross-linked networks.
Due to the complexity of their structure, they usually have high melting and boiling points.
Most condensation polymers are thermoplastic, meaning they become mouldable past a certain temperature and solidify upon cooling, but some may be thermosetting.
Many condensation polymers are resistant to chemicals and do not dissolve easily. This makes them suitable for use in textiles, packaging, and other durable goods.

Condensation polymers, like other polymers, can have a negative environmental impact due to their long degradation process.
Some condensation polymers can be recyclable - for example, PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), a type of polyester, can be recycled into many products including fibres for carpets.
Biodegradable condensation polymers are also being developed in a bid to be more environment-friendly, such as polylactic acid (PLA) derived from renewable resources like corn starch.