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Which of the following combinations of monomers can be used to synthesize a biodegradable polyamide?

1. Glycine and isoprene
2. Hexamethylenediamine and adipic acid
3. Glycine and aminocaproic acid
4. Styrene and caproic acid

Correct answer: Glycine and aminocaproic acid

Solution

Glycine (H2N-CH2-COOH) and aminocaproic acid (H2N-(CH2)5-COOH) are both alpha/omega-amino acids. Condensation polymerization between their amino and carboxyl groups gives an amide-linked polymer — a polyamide — whose amide bonds can be hydrolysed by enzymes in nature, making it biodegradable. Nylon-6,6 (option B) is a synthetic polyamide but is not biodegradable. Options A and D cannot form polyamides.

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