Formation of Commercial Nylon 6 Overview Nylon polymers produced in the laboratory usually have poor properties in comparison to commercial nylon fibers. Fibers produced by this reaction show impressive strength. Materials 10 g Caprolactum 0.5 g Polyoxyethylene (MW weight 2000-7500 daltons) 3-5 drops of N-Acetylcaprolactum Test Tube Bunsen Burner Test Tube Holder 5g Sodium Hydride Procedure
Discussion Once polymerization is complete, fibers can be drawn up to 75 to 100 ft. long. These fibers will stretch under tension to complete the polymer orientation which will result in a tough material similar to commercial nylon thread or fishing line. Nylons are also called polyamides because the repeat unit contains the amide group. They are a class of polymers that are formed by reaction between an amine and acid groups. Nylon 6 can be produced in bulked continuos filament carpet fibers for carpet and automotive markets. It can also be made into textile fibers for use in apparel, automotive, upholstery, and industrial applications. References
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