Polymers are organic compounds made of large molecules assembled by repeating units known as monomers. These long molecular chains give rise to unique bulk properties that make Polymers suitable for a wide range of applications.
The properties of Polymers depend on both intra- and intermolecular forces between Polymers chains. London dispersion forces contribute to intramolecular interactions between bonds along the backbone of a Polymers chain. Hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and dipole-dipole interactions also play a role depending on the functional groups present in the monomers.
Intermolecular forces like van der Waals forces govern how Polymers chains interact with each other. The strength and type of these interactions dictate important material properties. For example, Polymers with strong intermolecular attractions have high melting points and tend to be rigid solids at room temperature. Those with weak interactions between chains melt at lower temperatures and are often soft, flexible materials.
Classification of Polymers
Polymers are typically classified according to their molecular structure as either thermosets or thermoplastics. Thermoplastic Polymers, like polyethylene and nylon, soften when heated and harden again when cooled. They can be remolded or reshaped numerous times through a process of melting or dissolution.
Thermoset Polymers, including epoxies and silicones, solidify irreversibly when heated and cured. After initial setting, they cannot be remelted or remolded. This behavior arises due to additional crosslinking reactions that occur during thermosetting which covalently bond Polymers chains together into infinite networks.
Polymers can also be categorized by their source. Naturally occurring bioPolymers like cellulose, silk, and rubber have inspired many synthetic versions. From petroleum-derived plastics like polyethylene to bioplastics produced sustainably from renewable plant-based sugars, modern Polymers come from diverse feedstocks.
Synthesis of Polymers
Controlled Polymersization techniques allow precise manipulation of molecular weight, branching, and other properties. There are two major methods for synthesizing Polymers:
Addition Polymersization involves unsaturated monomers combining by a chain growth mechanism. It underlies the formation of important commodity plastics such as polypropylene and polystyrene via typical free radical or ionic processes. This leads to linear or branched Polymers with heteroatom groups/bonds along the backbone.
Condensation Polymersization produces Polymers with heteroatom groups removed from the repeat units. It links monomers that have carboxylic acids, alcohols, or other groups capable of undergoing condensation reactions. Examples are the fabrication of polyesters, polyamides, polyurethanes, polysiloxanes, and other step-growth Polymers.
Precise synthetic control ensures Polymers chains have predictable molecular weights, narrow distributions, and desired functionalities for solving modern challenges.
Applications of Polymers
Given their combination of lightweight and durability, Polymers have revolutionized innumerable industries. Early adopters like the automotive sector leveraged plastics to create stronger yet lighter vehicles. Other major applications include:
Packaging - Polymers allow hermetic sealing of food, drugs, personal care items and more through tough plastic films and containers made of PET, PE, and PP. Their barrier properties extend shelf life while reducing waste.
Textiles - Synthetic Polymers fibers like nylon, polyester, acrylic, and spandex bring desirable attributes like wrinkle resistance to fabrics. Performance materials transport moisture away from the body.
Medical - Biomaterials interface safely with living tissues through non-toxic materials like silicone, UHMWPE, and engineered resins. Their chemical versatility also yields medical devices and labware.
Construction - PVC pipes, fixtures, siding, and windows utilize chemical stability and weather resistance of plastics to reduce maintenance. Molecular design instills durability and lends longevity to infrastructure.
Electronics - Thin, light Polymers insulate circuits and housings for electronics. Thermoset epoxies and liquid crystal Polymers withstand heat generated by components in appliances, vehicles, and power infrastructure.
Sustainable Future of Polymers
Sustainability concerns motivate development of novel bioPolymers technologies. Researchers mimic resilient natural Polymers and engineer microbes to produce commodity plastics from renewable biomass. New recycling methods close material loops by breaking Polymers back into reusable monomers or designing them for disassembly into pure recycled streams. Advances in Polymers science will steer the materials of tomorrow toward sustainability through green synthesis, design for end-of-life, and circular economic models. Regardless of the fabrication method, Polymers remain an integral part of our lives by fulfilling diverse applications through properties that arise from their macromolecular nature.
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