Making nylon: the ‘nylon rope trick’

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The ‘nylon rope trick’ is a classic of chemistry classrooms, by mixing decanedioyl dichloride and in cyclohexane you can create a solution that will form nylon strings when floated on an aqueous solution of 1,6-diaminohexane. Kit list and safety instructions included.

Amaze and astound students with this demonstration that explores polymerisation through the ‘nylon rope trick’. A mix of chemicals, a careful hand, and a captive audience are all you need.

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