Polymer, Polymerization and Polymer Classification

Polymer And Polymerization

Condensation Polymer: Nylon-6-6, Terylene.

Addition Polymer: Polythene, Neoprene.

Polymer Classification

Polymer Classification on the basis of Source:

1.    Natural Polymer: 

                                  These are polymers which found in nature (in plants and animals). Example- Protein, Cellulose, Rubber.

2.    Semi-synthetic Polymer: 

                                         These are polymers which are prepared by treating naturally occurring polymers. Example- Cellulose Derivatives as cellulose acetate (Rayon), Cellulose Nitrate.

3.    Synthetic Polymer: 

                              These are polymers which are prepared by human beings in industry. Example- Plastic (Polyethene), Synthetic Fibers ( Nylon 6-6), Buna-S.

Polymer Classification on the basis of Structure:

1.    Linear Polymer: 

                                These are polymers which contain long and straight chains. Example- High Density Polythene, Polyvinyl Chloride.

2.    Branched Chain Polymer: 

                                                  These are polymers which contain linear chains with some branches. Example- Low Density Polythene.

3.     Cross Linked or Network Polymer: 

                                                                These are polymers which contain bi & tri functional monomers and contain very strong covalent bonds between the various linear polymer chains. Example- Bakelite, Melamine.

Polymer Classification on the basis of Molecular Forces:

1.    Elastomers: 

                     These are polymers which have elastic property means they can be stretched. Example- Weak intermolecular forces. eg.- Natural Rubber, Synthetic Rubber.

2.    Fibers: 

            These are polymers which have thread forming property and possess high tensile strength, high modulus and strong intermolecular forces. Example- Polyamides (Nylon6-6), Polyesters (Terylene).

3.    Thermoplastic: 

                              These are polymers which have linear or slightly branched long chain molecules which are capable of repeatedly softening on applying heating and hardening on applying cooling. Example- Polythene, Polystyrene.

4.    Thermosetting: 

                              These polymers contain cross linked and heavily branched molecules. These polymers on heating undergo extensive cross linking in moulds. Thermosetting polymers can't be reused. Example- Bakelite, Urea Formaldehyde Resins.

Chemistry Terminology by:- www.ChemistryNotesInfo.com