Question

Caprolactam is used for the manufacture of:
a.) Terylene
b.) Nylon-6,6
c.) Nylon-6
d.) Teflon

Answer 1

Hint: To answer this solution we should first know about caprolactam. We should know that structurally, nylon-6 is like nylon-6,6 but nylon-6 is made up of one kind of monomer. We should know that nylon 6, 6 is made from two monomers.


Complete step by step solution:
We should first know about nylon 6, which is used in making different products. We produce Nylon 6 in two general product types: the regular type for textile uses and the high-strength type for industrial uses. We use nylon 6 mostly in the production of fibre yarns for the manufacture of carpets, tire cords, apparel, hosiery, upholstery, seat belts, parachutes, ropes, and industrial cords.
Now, we will know about caprolactam. Let us observe the reaction below.

The above reaction is the transformation of monomer caprolactam into polymer Nylon-6. We should know that almost all caprolactam produced goes into the manufacture of Nylon 6. This type of polymerisation is ring-opening polymerization (ROP). We should know that ring-opening polymerization (ROP) is a form of chain-growth polymerization, in which the terminus of a polymer chain attacks cyclic monomers to form a longer polymer.
So, from the above discussion now we know that caprolactam is used for the manufacture of nylon-6. So, we can say that option C is the correct answer.

Note: We should be careful in handling caprolactam because caprolactam is an irritant and is mildly toxic. it was included on the list of hazardous air pollutants. We should note that if we add caprolactam to water, it hydrolyzes to aminocaproic acid, which is used medicinally.