Polymers: Answers

What is the name of the addition polymer formed from chloroethene monomers?

Remember that all we need to do when naming addition polymers is to use the prefix ‘poly'-’ followed by the name of the monomer in brackets. So the name of the addition polymer formed from chloroethene monomers would be poly(chloroethene).

What is the difference between an addition polymer and a condensation polymer?

An addition polymer is formed when the double carbon bond in alkene monomers are broken and lots of these are joined together. The polymer is the only product formed. A condensation polymer such as a polyester is formed when the alcohol group on one monomer reacts with a carboxylic acid group on another monomer, bonding them together. This happens hundreds or thousands of times to form a long polymer and water molecules.

What bond is formed from condensation polymerisation between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid?

An ester bond (-COO) is formed when an alcohol and carboxylic acid react in a condensation reaction.

What environmental issues are involved in the disposal of addition or condensation polymers?

Addition and condensation polymers are very inert (unreactive) which means they do not break down in the environment very easily. Their non-biodegradable properties means that they can persist in landfill for a long period of time. Burning polymers can release toxic gases which are harmful to human health.

What are scientists doing to try and make the use of these polymers more sustainable?

Scientists are trying to develop biodegradable polyesters (called biopolyesters) that can be broken down into carbon dioxide and water by microorganisms.