Chapter 17, Problem 73P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structure of polyester PTT that is composed by terephthalic acid and 1,3-propanediol should be determined.

  

Concept Introduction:

Polymers are macromolecules which are composed of a large number of small repeating units. These repeating units are known as monomers and the process of formation of polymers from monomer units is known as polymerization.

On the basis of type of polymers, polymerization reaction can be two types; addition polymerization and condensation polymerization. The addition polymerization occurs between monomer units with unsaturated bonds between carbon atoms. For example; polymerization of alkene leads to formation of polyalkenes.

Condensation polymerization occurs with those monomers which have some functional groups like −OH, -COOH, -NH₂ etc. These polymerizations occur with elimination of small molecules such as H₂O, CO, and CO₂ etc.