What are examples of condensation polymers?

Examples of condensation polymers include polyesters, polyamides, and polycarbonates.

Polyesters are a type of condensation polymer that are commonly used in clothing, packaging, and plastic bottles. They are formed by the condensation reaction between a dicarboxylic acid and a diol. This reaction results in the formation of an ester linkage and the release of a water molecule. The most common type of polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used in the manufacture of plastic bottles and clothing fibres.

Polyamides are another type of condensation polymer. They are formed by the condensation reaction between a dicarboxylic acid and a diamine. This reaction results in the formation of an amide linkage and the release of a water molecule. Polyamides are commonly used in the manufacture of nylon, which is used in clothing, carpets, and ropes.

Polycarbonates are a type of condensation polymer that are commonly used in the manufacture of safety glasses, CDs, and DVDs. They are formed by the condensation reaction between a diol and phosgene. This reaction results in the formation of a carbonate linkage and the release of a hydrochloric acid molecule. Polycarbonates are known for their high impact resistance and transparency, making them ideal for use in safety glasses and optical discs.

In all these examples, the condensation reaction involves the formation of a new polymer chain, a specific linkage (ester, amide, or carbonate), and the release of a small molecule (water or hydrochloric acid). This is characteristic of condensation polymers, which differ from addition polymers where no small molecules are released during polymerisation.