Polymers are made up of large molecules composed of many repeating subunit or monomers. The backbone of a Polymers is formed by covalent bonds between these repeating units. This unique molecular structure leads to Polymers exhibiting both molecular and plastic properties. On a molecular level, Polymers consist of very large molecules, but on a macro scale they can take on solid, semi-solid or liquid physical forms.

 

Some key aspects of Polymers structure include the type of monomers that make up the backbone, how they are linked together, any side chains or functional groups present, and the overall molecular weight or length of the Polymers chain. Variations in any of these structural features give rise to the immense diversity seen in natural and synthetic Polymers. The bonding between monomer units in a Polymers can be either linear, branched or cross-linked. Linear Polymers have monomer units linked in a simple head-to-tail repeating pattern, while branching involves side chains branching off the main chain. Cross-linking occurs when Polymers from separate chains are bonded together, forming a three-dimensional network.

 

Natural vs Synthetic Polymers

 

Naturally occurring Polymers have been essential components of living organisms for billions of years and play critical roles such as storing and transporting genetic material, providing structure to plants and animals, and enabling chemical signaling between cells. Examples of natural Polymers include cellulose, the most abundant organic compound on Earth found in plant cell walls, starch a storage carbohydrate in plants, proteins that make up tissues and enzymes, and DNA/RNA which store and replicate the genetic code.

 

In contrast, synthetic Polymers are human-made Polymers that did not originate from nature but were developed through chemical synthesis. Some of the first synthetic plastics invented include Bakelite, nylon, polyester and polystyrene. Advances in organic synthesis and Polymers chemistry over the past century have enabled the development of a vast array of synthetic Polymers tailored for specific industrial and commercial applications. Key drivers for synthetic Polymers development have included replacing natural materials, enabling new technologies, and addressing performance or cost requirements not met by natural Polymers.

Get More Insights on- Polymers

For Deeper Insights, Find the Report in the Language that You want: