Problem 62 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Which of the following is biodegradable polymer of polyamide class? (a) dextran (b) Nylon-2-Nylon-6 (c) Nylon-6, 6 (d) PHBV

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(b) Nylon-2-Nylon-6 is the biodegradable polymer of polyamide class.

Step 1: Understanding Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradable polymers are those that can be broken down by microorganisms into water, carbon dioxide (or methane), and biomass. Polyamides that are biodegradable belong to this category.

Step 2: Identifying Polyamide Polymers

Review the options to identify which are polyamides. Nylon-2-Nylon-6 and Nylon-6,6 are polyamides. Options (a) dextran and (d) PHBV are not polyamides.

Step 3: Identifying Biodegradable Polyamides

Polyamides like Nylon-6,6 are synthetic and not biodegradable. However, Nylon-2-Nylon-6 is a known biodegradable polyamide.

Step 4: Conclusion

Based on the understanding and analysis, Nylon-2-Nylon-6 is the biodegradable polymer of the polyamide class.

Key Concepts

Polyamides

Polyamides are a class of polymers that contain repeating units linked by amide bonds. They are best known for their strength, resilience, and wide use in textiles, automotive parts, and numerous other applications. The term 'amide bond' refers to the \\( \text{C(O)-NH} \) linkage present in the backbone of the polymer. This bond gives polyamides their unique characteristics, such as good thermal stability and chemical resistance. However, not all polyamides are created equal in terms of their environmental impact.
Some polyamides are biodegradable, meaning they can be broken down into simpler compounds by microorganisms. This is an important trait as it offers an ecological advantage over non-biodegradable polymers by reducing long-term environmental impact. Nylon-2-Nylon-6, for example, is a biodegradable polyamide, unlike its non-biodegradable counterparts such as Nylon-6,6.

Nylon Polymers

Nylon polymers are a specific type of polyamide known for their exceptional durability and versatility. They are composed of long, repeating chains of molecules that allow them to be incredibly strong while being lightweight. Nylons are used in a wide array of products, from clothing and carpets to mechanical parts. This is because they can be engineered to possess various properties, such as resistance to abrasion and low permeability to gases and liquids.
Among nylons, a distinction is made between different types, like Nylon-6 and Nylon-6,6, which differ in the structure of the repeating units. However, not all nylons are biodegradable. Synthetic types such as Nylon-6,6 are known for their resistance and longevity, but unfortunately, this also means they do not degrade easily in the environment.
On the contrary, Nylon-2-Nylon-6 is a notable exception. It is designed to be biodegradable, thus offering a more environmentally friendly option while maintaining certain useful properties of nylons.

Microorganisms

Microorganisms are crucial for the degradation of biodegradable polyamides. They include bacteria, fungi, and other microscopic entities that have the ability to break down complex materials into simpler forms.
Biodegradable polymers like Nylon-2-Nylon-6 can be decomposed by these microorganisms, ultimately transforming the polymer into carbon dioxide, water, methane, or biomass. This process is essential for reducing the environmental footprint of polymers and helps in cycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.
The interaction between biodegradable polyamides and microorganisms is influenced by factors such as temperature, presence of water, and availability of these organisms. Understanding how microorganisms contribute to the breakdown of materials can help in developing new biodegradable polymers and improve waste management practices.