Urea-methanal polymerisation

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Explore condensation polymerisation by creating and investigating the properties of a thermosetting polymer in this demonstration. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students observe as urea is dissolved in aqueous methanal. By acidifying the solution, the demonstrator can illustrate an example of condensation polymerisation, producing a hard, white, thermosetting polymer. After washing, the properties of this substance can be investigated.

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