Applicable for A-Level, IB, DSE, AP-Level Exams
Condensation polymerisation involves the removal of water from 2 functional groups to form a polymer. Polyamides and polyesters are examples of condensaation polymers.
Addition reactions of alkenes can be used to make polymers.
Polyalkenes are chemically inert and non-biodegradable. On the other hand, polyesters and polyamides (which are formed from condensation polymerisation) can be broken down by hydrolysis and are biodegradable. There are 3 different methods for the disposal of polymers: Burying, Burning and Recycling.