Polymerisation of diol?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the polymerization of HO-R-OH, where R is an alkyl group. This is important because only the simplest case of diols with the same carbon are easily polymerized. Under acidic conditions and with the removal of water, poly ethers can be made for longer alkyl chains. However, for shorter alkyls, dimerization, trimerization, and monomer cyclization can occur, resulting in complex mixtures.
  • #1
jsmith613
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why does
HO-R-OH
(where R is an alkyl group) polymerise?
i.e: with itself?
 
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  • #2
How many carbons in that "alkyl" group?
 
  • #3
chemisttree said:
How many carbons in that "alkyl" group?

This extremely important, since only the simplest case of the diols existing on the same carbon are readily polymerized to poly acetals (geminal diol). The simplest is polyformaldehyde, a white powder that is poorly soluble in water with reaction to depolymerize to a formaldehyde solution.

One can envision under acidic conditions and with removal of H2O to drive the reaction, that poly ethers can be made for other alkyls of longer than one methylene (vicinal diols and greater intervening methylenes). For the shorter alkyls, (2,3,4, and 5 intervening methylenes), dimers, trimers, and the monomer can cyclize and remove intermediates (volatile under the conditions of reaction heat and H2O removal) needed to make longer polymers so complex mixtures result.
 
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  • #4
That's why I asked the question. Geminal diols behave very differently than other diols.
 
  • #5


Polymerisation of diols, such as HO-R-OH, occurs due to the presence of functional groups that are capable of forming strong covalent bonds with other molecules. In this case, the hydroxyl groups (-OH) are reactive and can undergo condensation reactions with each other, forming ether linkages between the diol molecules.

This process is known as polycondensation and is driven by the elimination of small molecules, such as water, from the reacting molecules. As a result, the diol molecules are joined together, forming long chains or networks, which are the basis of polymers.

The alkyl group (R) attached to the diol molecule does not directly participate in the polymerisation process. However, it does play a crucial role in determining the physical properties of the resulting polymer. The size and structure of the alkyl group can affect the flexibility, solubility, and other characteristics of the polymer.

In summary, the polymerisation of diols occurs due to the reactivity of the hydroxyl groups, which enables the formation of strong bonds between the molecules. The alkyl group attached to the diol molecule can influence the properties of the resulting polymer. This process is important in the production of various polymers used in everyday products and materials.
 

1. What is polymerisation of diol?

Polymerisation of diol is a chemical process in which two or more molecules of diol, a type of alcohol with two hydroxyl groups, combine to form a larger molecule called a polymer. This process involves the breaking of bonds between the diol molecules and the formation of new bonds, resulting in a chain-like structure.

2. What are the benefits of polymerisation of diol?

Polymerisation of diol can lead to the creation of polymers with improved properties such as strength, flexibility, and durability. These polymers can be used in a variety of applications, including packaging materials, adhesives, and coatings.

3. What are the different methods of polymerisation of diol?

There are two main methods of polymerisation of diol: step-growth polymerisation and chain-growth polymerisation. Step-growth polymerisation involves the reaction between two functional groups on different diol molecules, while chain-growth polymerisation involves the addition of monomers to a growing polymer chain.

4. What factors can affect the polymerisation of diol?

The polymerisation of diol can be affected by various factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of catalysts. The type and amount of diol and other monomers used can also influence the polymerisation process and the properties of the resulting polymer.

5. What are some common applications of polymers formed by polymerisation of diol?

Some common applications of polymers formed by polymerisation of diol include adhesives, coatings, and packaging materials. These polymers can also be used in the production of medical devices, electronics, and construction materials.

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