Chapter 21.SE, Problem 60AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The step-growth polymer nylon 6 is prepared from caprolactam. The reaction involves initial reaction of caprolactam with water to give an intermediate open-chain amino acid, followed by heating to form the polymer. Propose mechanisms for both steps, and show the structure of nylon 6.

Concept introduction:

This step growth polymerization thus begins with a single functional monomer that has two different functional groups, NH₂ AND CoaH.