POLYMERS
By: Glean Adrian ombao
DEGREE OF POLYMERIZATION
Degree of Polymerization (DP) is a fundamental concept
in polymer science that refers to the average number of
monomer units that make up a polymer chain. It is a
crucial parameter for characterizing polymers because it
directly influences their physical and chemical properties.
SIGNIFICANCE IN CHARACTERIZING POLYMERS
Molecular Weight: DP is directly proportional to the molecular
weight of a polymer. Higher DP values indicate longer polymer
chains and consequently higher molecular weights.
Example of High dp:
polyethylene has a high DP due to:
Simple Monomer (CH₂=CH₂): Ethylene's basic structure makes chain
growth easy.
Linear Chains: Especially in High density polyethylene (HDPE),
allowing longer chains.
Stable C-C Bonds: Prevents chain breakage.
Minimal Branching: Lack of side groups reduces chain termination
The degree of polymerization influences the random distribution of
molecular masses at chain termination, which can have a range of
lengths and repeating units.
This is usually calculated in terms of mass:
Mn= average molecular weight
Mo= molecular weight of the monomer unit.
Chemical Properties:
Reactivity: DP can affect the reactivity of polymers. For
instance, polymers with higher DP might exhibit slower
reaction rates due to the reduced accessibility of reactive
sites within the longer chains.
Degradation: The degradation rate of polymers can be
influenced by DP. Longer chains might be more resistant
to certain degradation mechanisms, while shorter chains
might be more susceptible.
CONDENSATION POLYMERIZATION
Condensation polymerization is a step-growth
polymerization process where monomers with at least two
functional groups react to form a polymer chain, releasing
a small molecule as a byproduct.
The key to this process lies in the functional groups
present on the monomers. These groups react with each
other, forming a new bond between the monomers and
releasing a small molecule as a byproduct.
Example:
Condensation polymerization - an amine (R¬NH2) reacts with a carboxylic
acid R¬COOH) to form a bond between N and C plus an H2O molecule
Types of condensation polymerization
Polyamides (Nylons):
Formation: Polyamides are formed by the condensation
reaction between a dicarboxylic acid and a diamine. This
reaction releases a water molecule as a byproduct.
Polyesters:
Formation: Polyesters are formed by the condensation reaction
between a dicarboxylic acid and a dialcohol (diol). This reaction
also releases a water molecule.
Condensation polymerization is a versatile process that produces
various polymers with diverse properties, requiring understanding
of different classifications and reaction conditions to produce
desired polymers.
TYPES OF POLYMERS
The chemical and physical properties of a polymer are primarily
determined by the type of monomer used to form the polymer
molecule.
There are two types of polymers:
Homopolymer: is a type of polymer composed of only one type of
repeating monomer unit. Think of it like a chain made entirely of the
same type of link. This uniformity in structure leads to predictable and
often desirable properties.
For example, repeating unit ‘vinyl chloride’ forms a polymer called
polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
Some common examples of homopolymers include polyethylene,
polypropylene, polystyrene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and poly(methyl
methacrylate).
Copolymer: is a polymer formed from two or more different types of
monomers. Imagine a chain made of different types of links, each
contributing unique characteristics to the overall chain's strength,
flexibility, or other properties.
TYPES OF COPOLYMER
STRUCTURES & PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF POLYMERS
DEGREE OF CRYSTALLINITY : Crystalline structure in polymers
significantly influences physical and mechanical characteristics like
density, melting temperature, and strength, making it a crucial property
to consider.
CROSSLINKING: Through the creation of brief chemical links, covalent
bonds between polymer chains change a springy, flexible material into a
stronger, more rigid, and less processable substance.
CONCLUSION
Designing materials with desired qualities requires an
understanding of polymer structure, types of polymerization
techniques, and degree of polymerization. Because of their
versatility and vast range of applications, from common home
goods to cutting-edge medical technologies, polymers play a
crucial role in different industries.
THANK
YOU!
