Why do polymers have different properties?
In polymers, monomers are linked together by various molecular interactions. The nature of these interactions causes different elasticity, tensile strength, thermal stability and hardness in these polymers. Polymers with different properties are listed below.
Monomers with weak bonds form linear chains. These types of polymers have the property of elasticity and are called elastomers, such as “Neoprene”, “Buna-S” and “Buna-R”.
Polymers with strong interactions between monomers have high tensile strength and are used as fibers. Polyamides (nylon 66) and polyesters are of this type of polymer.
Polymers in which the intermolecular forces are between fibers and elastomers are known as thermoplastics. These polymers can be produced many times without changing their polymer properties. Polyethylene and polyvinyl are among these polymers.
Branched monomers will melt due to heat and can not be reused. These materials are called thermoset plastics. Examples of these polymers include bakelite and urea formaldehyde.
What does the rubber cooking process mean?
Natural rubber (rubber) has very high elasticity and low physical stability. Adding 5% sulfur helps to improve the crosslinking of linear chains, which eventually leads to their use in car tires, a process called “sulfur vulcanization”.
How are polymers identified?
Various methods are used to identify polymers, including various spectroscopic methods such as infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance and Raman spectroscopy.
What is construction polymer?
Polymeric materials have a variety of applications and many of them have entered the construction industry. PVC is the most widely used polymer in construction equipment. The advantages of polyvinyl chloride are long life, moisture and electricity insulation, fire-retardant properties, cheapness, high chemical resistance and tensile strength.
Polymer products used in construction include plumbing, water and sanitation, doors and windows, interior fixtures, flooring, and roofing.
What is a synthetic polymer?
As we have said, polymers are classified into two categories, natural and synthetic. Man-made polymers are called synthetic polymers, which are much larger than natural types. Polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, glyptal and bakelite are some of the types of synthetic polymers that are used in many industries.
