Authors : P. J. Chakravorty1 , S. B. Khasare2, C. M. Dhude3
Page Nos : 210-224
Description :
Most polymers are formed from monomers either of hydrocarbon or hydro-carbon
derivatives. The most basic synthetic monomer is ethylene (C2H4), a name whose-ene
ending identifies it as an alkene, a hydrocarbon formed by double bonds between
carbon atoms. Another alkene hydrocarbon monomer is butadiene, whose formula is
C4H6. The butadiene\\\'s structure is much more complex. Still more complex is styrene,
which includes a benzene ring. Several other monomers involve other elements:
chloride, in vinyl chloride; nitrogen, in acrylonitrile; and fluorine, in tetrafluoroethylene.
Polymers, both natural and synthetic, are created via polymerization of many
monomers. Their consequently large molecular mass relative to small molecule
compounds produces unique physical properties, including toughness, visco elasticity,
and a tendency to form glasses and semi crystalline structures rather than crystals.
Here we are going to study the polymerization process , the micro structure, biological
synthesis of polymers, biopolymers, chain length of polymers, modification of natural
polymers, their characterization, degradation and their real life application.
The process by which polymers are formed from monomers is called polymerization.
Polymerization occurs by one of two basic reactions: addition or condensation. Another
variety of polymerization, the process whereby monomers join to form polymers. If
monomers of a single type join, the resulting polymer is called a homo polymer, but if
the polymer consists of more than one type of monomer, it is known as a copolymer.
This joining may take place by one of two processes.Also Polymerization is the process
of combining many small molecules known as monomers into a covalently bonded
chain or network.