Neoprene production — The monomer used to produce neoprene rubber is:

Chemical Engineering Polymer Technology Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Chloroethane (ethyl chloride)
  • B
    Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)
  • C
    Isoprene (2-methyl-1,3-butadiene)
  • D
    Vinyl chloride (chloroethene)
  • E
    Butadiene (1,3-butadiene)

Answer

Correct Answer: Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Linking elastomer trade names to their monomers clarifies structure–property relationships. Neoprene is prized for oil and weather resistance; this originates from the chlorine substituent on its diene monomer.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We identify the specific monomer for neoprene.
  • Common conjugated dienes and halo-derivatives are listed.

Concept / Approach:Neoprene is polychloroprene formed by the polymerization of chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene). The presence of chlorine provides enhanced oxidative and oil resistance relative to polyisoprene or polybutadiene elastomers.

Step-by-Step Solution:Match name: neoprene ↔ polychloroprene.Thus, the monomer must be chloroprene.Therefore, choose chloroprene.

Verification / Alternative check:Polymer references and manufacturer datasheets consistently define neoprene as polychloroprene made from chloroprene.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Chloroethane, vinyl chloride: produce different polymers (e.g., PVC from vinyl chloride).
  • Isoprene: yields natural rubber equivalent (polyisoprene).
  • Butadiene: yields polybutadiene or SBR when copolymerized with styrene.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing chloroprene with vinyl chloride or isoprene due to similar names; forgetting the necessity of the conjugated diene structure.

Final Answer:Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)

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