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Understanding Monomers in Polymers

Polymers are large molecules made of repeating units called monomers, which can be natural or synthetic, and their properties depend on their structure. Polymerization is the process of forming polymers, with two main types being addition and condensation polymerization. Plastics, a category of synthetic polymers, can be thermoplastics or thermosets, but they pose environmental concerns due to pollution and waste.

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5 views14 pages

Understanding Monomers in Polymers

Polymers are large molecules made of repeating units called monomers, which can be natural or synthetic, and their properties depend on their structure. Polymerization is the process of forming polymers, with two main types being addition and condensation polymerization. Plastics, a category of synthetic polymers, can be thermoplastics or thermosets, but they pose environmental concerns due to pollution and waste.

Uploaded by

lhorraine concepcion
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We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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WHAT IS A POLYMER?

•Polymers are large molecules composed of


repeating structural units (monomers).
•They can be natural (e.g., proteins, cellulose) or
synthetic (e.g., polyethylene, nylon).
•The properties of polymers depend on the types of
monomers and the structure of the polymer chain.
POLYMERIZATION
•Polymerization is the chemical process of forming
polymers from monomers.
•There are two main types of polymerization:
•1. Addition (Chain-Growth) Polymerization
•2. Condensation (Step-Growth) Polymerization
ADDITION POLYMERIZATION
•Monomers with double bonds (usually alkenes) react to
form a long chain without the loss of any atoms.
•Key steps: Initiation, Propagation, Termination.
•Example: Ethylene (CH2=CH2) forms Polyethylene (–
CH2–CH2–)n.
CONDENSATION POLYMERIZATION

Monomers with two functional groups react


and release a small molecule (commonly
water or methanol).
•Used to create polyesters, polyamides (e.g.,
nylon).
•Example: Hexamethylenediamine + Adipic
acid → Nylon 6,6 + Water.
POLYMER STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES

•Polymers can be linear, branched, or cross-


linked.
•Structural features affect melting point,
flexibility, strength, and solubility.
•Engineering applications often require specific
properties tailored through copolymerization or
additives.
NATURAL RUBBER
•Obtained from latex of Hevea brasiliensis (rubber
tree).
•Main component: cis-1,4-polyisoprene.
•Elasticity and strength can be improved by
vulcanization (adding sulfur to create cross-links).
NATURAL RUBBER
1. Rubber bands – stretchy and soft
2. Pencil erasers – flexible and easy to use
3. Balloons – stretch when you blow them up
4. Shoe soles – especially in slippers or sneakers
5. Gloves – like those used for cleaning or in
hospitals
SYNTHETIC RUBBER
Made via polymerization of monomers like
butadiene and styrene.
•Common types: Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR),
Neoprene, Nitrile rubber.
•Applications: Tires, gaskets, hoses, industrial
goods.
SYNTHETIC RUBBER
Butyl Rubber (IIR):
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
Silicone Rubber
Polyurethane Rubber
PLASTICS – DEFINITION AND
CLASSIFICATION
•Plastics are synthetic polymers that can be molded
into various shapes.
•Two main types:
•1. Thermoplastics: Re-meltable (e.g., PVC, PET)
•2. Thermosets: Harden permanently (e.g., epoxy,
Bakelite)
COMMON PLASTICS AND THEIR USES
•1. POLYETHYLENE (PE) – PACKAGING, CONTAINERS
•2. POLYPROPYLENE (PP) – AUTOMOTIVE, TEXTILES
•3. POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVC) – PIPES, CABLES
•4. POLYSTYRENE (PS) – PACKAGING, INSULATION
•5. POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE (PET) – BOTTLES,
FIBERS
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONCERNS
•PLASTICS AND SYNTHETIC RUBBER
CONTRIBUTE TO POLLUTION AND
WASTE.
•NON-BIODEGRADABLE, OFTEN END UP
IN LANDFILLS AND OCEANS.
•RECYCLING AND BIODEGRADABLE
ALTERNATIVES ARE KEY SOLUTIONS.

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