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EXPERIMENT 11

"Polymerization Reactions "

CGQ200-60-60-2023-3-QUIMICA ORGANICA I

PROFESSOR EILY MERCEDES PÉREZ BRITO

Section 60:

Daniela Olivo 23-8010

Oscar Perez 23-8007

Hashley Castelly 23-8018

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INTRODUCTION

Polymerization is a chemical process that involves the transformation of small molecules,

called monomers, into large and complex molecules known as polymers. This transformation

occurs through covalent bonding, where monomers join together in repeating units, forming long

chains or networks. The resulting polymers exhibit a wide range of properties and applications

due to their unique structure and versatility. Polymerization plays a crucial role in modern

materials science, where researchers and engineers harness its power to create a diverse array of

essential substances. (Chemical Reaction | Definition, Equations, Examples, & Types, 2023)

These materials are integral to our daily lives, with applications spanning from everyday

products like plastics and textiles to sophisticated technologies in industries such as electronics,

aerospace, and medicine. Understanding the principles and mechanisms behind polymerization is

essential to comprehend how these chemical transformations influence the properties and

behavior of polymers. By studying different types of polymerization reactions, such as addition

and condensation polymerization, scientists can tailor materials with specific characteristics,

tailoring them for particular applications. (Polymerization - Addition and Condensation

Polymerization, Degree, n.d.)

The significance of polymerization in our daily lives cannot be overstated, as polymers have

become integral components in an astonishing array of products and technologies. From the

ubiquitous plastics that shape our everyday experience to the advanced materials that drive

cutting-edge industries, polymers have left an indelible mark on every facet of modern society.

As we navigate the vast realm of polymerization, we come to recognize that these chemical

transformations have ushered in an era of unparalleled technological advancement and

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innovation. The compelling synergy of scientific understanding, engineering prowess, and

creative imagination has enabled the development of materials that shape our world and hold the

promise of a brighter future. Embracing the boundless potential of polymerization, we embark on

a quest to explore the frontiers of this captivating field, seeking to unravel new possibilities and

unlock the next generation of transformative materials. (Portorreal, M. (2019))

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Table of Contents

● Introduction

● Summary

● Objective

● Equipment & Materials

● Procedures, Results & Analysis

● Questions

● Conclusions

● References
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Summary :In this report, we explored the concept of polymerization, delving into its chemical

basis and examining the various processes that led to the creation of polymers. By gaining

insights into these reactions, we could appreciate the diverse range of polymers and their

significance in addressing real-world challenges.

Objective : The objective of this report was to explore the principles and mechanisms of

polymerization reactions, understanding their impact on polymer properties. Additionally, we

aimed to investigate the diverse applications of polymers in various industries and their

significance in materials science.

Equipment :

6% polyvinyl alcohol, 4% aqueous sodium borate, coloring solution, white glue, plastic cups and

bags, piece of diaper, rubber bands, X rays film, 2% aqueous NaCI, 2% aqueous sucrose, 400

mL Beaker glass, 5 small test tubes with corks ,1 glass rod, 1 small watch glass.
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Procedures

1- Preparation of an interlaced polymer

a) We Placed 5 mL of 6% polyvinyl alcohol solution in a small Beaker. We Heated in a

water bath (with the burner turned off) for 10 minutes, then we added 8 drops of coloring

solution.

b) We Kept it in the water bath and then added 1 mL of a 4% aqueous sodium borate.We

Stirred in with a glass rod until there were no more changes.

c) we took the polymer out of the Beaker and placed it on a watch glass.

d) We Stretched it out, pressed it down, pulled it apart, and found out if it rebounded. We

Used our creativity to find out what the different possibilities were.

2- Preparation of a polymer using white glue

We Dissolved 5 mL of white glue in 3 mL of distilled water and we added a few drops of

coloring solution.

We Added 6 drops of the 4% sodium borate solution and mixed it using a glass rod. The

viscous mass formed can be shaped the way you want. We Used part (d) from above, to

find out about the properties of the polymer prepared.

The polymer presented in the white glue was usually different. Some had polyvinyl

acetate, while others used polyvinyl alcohol. Both had long chains, but would make

products with

different characteristics.

3- Capacity of some polymers to absorb water

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a) We Used a scissors to cut a piece of a dry and clean diaper, in the center of the inferior

part.

b) We Placed every portion in each of three different beakers labeled #1, #2, and #3,

respectively.

c) To the beaker labeled #1 add 1.5 ml of distilled water little by little until it did not

absorb any more.

d) We Repeated the previous step (c), using a 1.5 mL of 2% NaCl solution instead of

distilled water.

e)We Repeated the previous step (c), using a 1.5 mL of 2% Sucrose solution instead of

distilled water.

f) We Weighed every Beaker again to determine the amount of water absorbed in each

case.

4- Mechanical Properties

a) We Observed what happened when we apply force to every one of the different types

of plastic matter listed in the table below, by pressing it while we held it with your two

fingers, thumb and index. We Used the chart to describe the behavior of each polymer

under that pressure.

b) We Used your hands to stretch out every one of the materials listed, and wrote down

our observations and conclusions.

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Result and analysis

Experiment 1: The rubber contents were easily malleable compared to the other groups theirs

had a greater bounce. We believe that an excess of NaBrO3

Experiment 2: Bounces, stretches, moldable, light blue mixed with blue indicator

Experiment 3: Water → 153.0g → 0.3g Initial 154.4g → 1.4g Final absorption

NaCL → 98.0g → 0.3g Initial 99.3g → 1.3g Final absorption

Sucrose → 98.0g → 0.2g Initial 99.2g → 1.2g Final absorption

Experiment 4: Mechanical Properties

Polymer Compress Stretch

Elastic band Plastic memory Plastic memory

Plastic cup Deformed Plastic memory

X rays film Plastic memory Plastic memory

Plastic bag Deformed Deformed

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QUESTIONS

1. Which molecules can present polymerization?

Molecules with multiple repeating units can undergo polymerization, like ethylene, vinyl

chloride, propylene, and styrene.

2. What causes a polymer to be flexible?

The flexibility of a polymer is influenced by its molecular structure, side chains, and

cross-linking. Flexible polymers have long, flexible chains with weak intermolecular forces.

3. List the advantages and disadvantages of the polymers

Advantages of polymers include being lightweight, versatile, and cost-effective, but they may

have environmental impact and lower mechanical strength.

4. What are the differences between the natural polymers and the synthetic ones?

Natural polymers come from plants or animals, are biodegradable, and have unique properties.

Synthetic polymers are human-made, non-biodegradable, and can be tailored for specific

applications.
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CONCLUSION

Daniela Olivo 23-8010 :

In conclusion, polymers are essential macromolecules consisting of repeating monomers, and

they play a fundamental role in various applications. Through the examination of different types

of polymers, including addition polymers, condensation polymers, copolymers, and natural

polymers, we recognize their diversity and the wide range of properties they can exhibit.

Understanding the classification of polymers based on their process of combination sheds light

on the distinct methods through which these macromolecules are synthesized, providing us with

valuable insights into their structural characteristics and potential applications. the classification

of polymers according to their behavior in front of heat is of significant importance in various

industries. By distinguishing thermoplastic polymers, which can be reshaped upon heating, from

thermosetting polymers, which undergo irreversible crosslinking, engineers and scientists can

select suitable materials for specific applications. Examples like Bakelite, a thermosetting

polymer known for its electrical insulating properties, and polystyrene, a versatile thermoplastic

commonly used in packaging and insulation, illustrate the practicality and impact of polymer

classification in our daily lives.

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Hashley Castelly 23-8018 : In conclusion, this exploration into polymerization reactions has

shed light on the fundamental principles that underpin the creation of polymers. Understanding

the mechanisms involved allows us to appreciate how chemical transformations during

polymerization influence the properties and behavior of these complex materials. The

wide-ranging applications of polymers in different industries highlight their vital role in modern

society, while their significance in materials science underscores their potential to address

real-world challenges and pave the way for innovative solutions. As we continue to delve into

the fascinating world of polymerization, we are inspired by the endless possibilities it offers for

tailoring materials and driving advancements in diverse fields.

Oscar Perez 23-8007: In conclusion, this exploration into polymerization reactions has been

very helpful in helping me understand the fundamental principles that lie at the core of polymer

creation. Delving into the intricate world of chemical transformations during polymerization has

bestowed upon us a profound understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved. This

newfound knowledge empowers us to grasp how these molecular rearrangements intricately

shape the properties and behavior of these versatile and complex materials. As we observed,

large chain polymers maintained the mechanical properties of their respective monomers. The

significance of comprehending polymerization mechanisms goes far beyond academic curiosity.

Polymers, with their diverse range of applications, play an indispensable role in modern

medicine and society. From everyday products like plastics and fibers to advanced materials used

in biomedical devices, electronics, and aerospace, polymers have found product market fit in our

daily lives and industries. Understanding the processes that govern their formation not only
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enables us to optimize their properties for specific applications but also allows us to address

real-world challenges more effectively.

References

Portorreal, M. (2019). Experiment no.11. Polymerization reactions Organic Chemistry I

Laboratory Manual. essay, Universidad Iberoamericana

(n.d.). Polymerization Reactions. Retrieved August 6, 2023, from

https://chemed.chem.purdue.edu/genchem/topicreview/bp/1polymer/reactions.html

Chemical reaction | Definition, Equations, Examples, & Types. (2023, June 26). Britannica.

Retrieved August 6, 2023, from

https://www.britannica.com/science/chemical-reaction/Polymerization-reactions

Polymerization - Addition and condensation polymerization, Degree. (n.d.). BYJU'S. Retrieved

August 6, 2023, from https://byjus.com/chemistry/polymerization/

Polymerization Reactions and Modifications of Polymers by Ionizing Radiation. (2020,

November 30). PubMed. Retrieved August 6, 2023, from

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33266261/

27.8: Polymers and Polymerization Reactions. (2023, July 12). Chemistry LibreTexts. Retrieved

August 6, 2023, from

https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/General_Chemistry/Map%3A_General_Chemistr
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y_(Petrucci_et_al.)/27%3A_Reactions_of_Organic_Compounds/27.08%3A_Polymers_a

nd_Polymerization_Reactions

Types of Polymerization. (2022, March 8). GeeksforGeeks. Retrieved August 6, 2023, from

https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/types-of-polymerization/