INTRODUCTION TO POLYMERS A polymer is a large molecule composed of repeated structural units called monomers, linked together in a chain-like fashion. The history of polymers began with the observation of natural polymers like rubber and proteins. In the early 20th century, the first fully synthetic polymer, Bakelite, was created by Leo Baekeland in 1907.
CLASSIFICATION OF POLYMERS Based on Source: Natural Polymers: Examples include proteins, cellulose, and natural rubber. Synthetic Polymers: Plastics like polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC . Based on Polymerization Process: Addition Polymers: Formed by the addition of monomers. Condensation Polymers: Formed by the elimination of small molecules during polymerization.
POLYMER STRUCTURE Linear polymers: These resemble long chains . The long chains are typically held together by weaker van der Waals or hydrogen bonding. Branched polymers: These resemble linear polymers with the addition of shorter chains hanging from the backbone. Crosslinked polymers: These resemble ladders . The chains link from one backbone to another. Networked polymers: These are complex polymers that are heavily linked to form a complex network of three-dimensional linkages
PROPERTIES OF POLYMERS Physical Properties: These include density, melting point , and glass transition temperature. Mechanical Properties: These include tensile strength , elasticity, and toughness.
APPLICATIONS OF POLYMERS Plastics Industry: Packaging Materials Consumer Goods (toys, utensils) Construction (pipes, insulation) Medical Field: Biodegradable Polymers for Implants Drug Delivery Systems Surgical Equipment Textiles: Clothing (polyester, nylon) Carpets and Upholstery (polypropylene)
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Pollution: Polymers, especially plastics, contribute to pollution in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems . Animals often ingest plastic fragments, leading to suffocation, digestive blockages, and death. Toxicity: Polymers can release toxic chemicals into the environment, affecting water and soil quality3]. Non-Biodegradable: Many polymers are non-biodegradable and persist in the environment for centuries. They slowly leak toxins into the soil and require constant landfill space. Marine Impact : By 2025, plastic waste in marine systems could reach 100–250 million metric tons annually1. This plastic pollution disrupts marine ecosystems and harms marine organisms
RECYCLING OF POLYMERS Mechanical Recycling : This is the most common form of recycling where waste polymers are re-melted and reformed into new items . It requires that waste be sorted by color and polymer type before processing. Chemical Recycling: In this process, polymers are chemically converted back into their original monomers or partially depolymerized into oligomers through a chemical reaction . This method allows for the creation of fresh plastic or other value-added products.
FUTURE OF POLYMERS Sustainable Solutions: Continued focus on developing eco-friendly and biodegradable polymers to reduce environmental impact. Advanced Applications: Advancements in polymer science will lead to innovative applications such as nanotechnology , smart polymers, and bio-based materials. Improved Properties: Research aims to enhance polymer properties like strength, durability, and conductivity for various industrial and technological applications.