Polymer and Hydrogen Bonds

Procedure for the Formation of Nylon

Materials

• 50 ml 0.5M hexamethylenediamine in 0.5M sodium hydroxide
• 50 ml 0.2M sebacoyl chloride in hexane
• gloves, plastic or rubber
• 250 ml beaker
• forceps
• 2 stirring rods
• phenolphthalein

Preparation
Wearing gloves, place the hexamethylenediamine solution in the beaker. Add two drops of phenolphthalein. Slowly and carefully pour the sebacoyl chloride solution as a layer on top of the diamine solution while trying to minimize any agitation. With forceps, grasp the film that is forming between the two layers and wind it on a stirring rod. Wash the thread thoroughly with water before handling.

Hazards
Hexamethylenediamine and sebacoyl chloride are irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Disposal
Any remaining reactants should be mixed thoroughly to produce the product. The solid product should be washed before it is discarded. Neutralize the remaining liquid reactants with sodium bisulfate (if basic) or sodium carbonate (if acidic).