Synthetic Polymers

A polymer, also known as a macromolecule, is a big molecule of numerous smaller molecules. ‘Many pieces’ is the Greek translation of the word polymer. It’s not hard to find polymers in our daily lives. Polypropylene, a material widely used across the globe, is a biopolymer derived from the DNA strand.

Polymers may be found in nature (natural polymers) or man-made (artificial polymers) (synthetic polymers). Because of their many physical and chemical characteristics, polymers are widely used daily.

Artificial polymer: A polymer that is not derived from living organisms. Any polymer that humans have synthesized is referred to as a “synthetic polymer.” A polymer comprises numerous monomers, which are the building components. The linear polymer of polyethylene is known as high-density polyethylene-HDPE, and its monomer unit is ethene or ethylene. As far as polymers go, polyethylene is one of the most basic. Polyethylene is a good example of a polymer with a chain-like structure.

Nylon and polyethylene are two well-known examples of synthetic polymers, referred to as “plastics” by some. Additive polymers, also known as chain-growth polymers, are produced by joining monomer units without any change in substance. These are all synthetic polymers, according to the definition.

A few synthetic polymers often seen in our daily lives are nylons, Teflon and polyvinyl chloride terephthalate (PVC). PET bottles are mostly made of polyethylene terephthalate, a synthetic polymer employed in their production. In addition to tyres, Buna rubber is utilized in automotive coverings and plastic kits. Non-biodegradability claims for synthetic polymers, such as biopolymers and fossil fuel plastics, create environmental concerns.

Types of polymers 

• Polymers derived from natural sources, such as plants and animals, are known as ‘natural polymers’. Cellulose and starch (which may be found in plants), and rubber are further examples of other popular instances (which we harvest from a host plant).

• Industrially produced synthetic polymers – they are made to fulfill people’s demands. Polyethylene (the bulk plastic we use in packaging) and Nylon Threads are two of the most prevalent polymers we utilize on a daily basis (commonly used in our clothing, fishing nets, etc.)

• Semi-Synthetic Polymers – Natural polymers are changed to produce semi-synthetic polymers in the laboratory. Chemical processes in a controlled environment produce these polymers used in commercial applications. For example, sulfur is used to bond polymer chains in natural rubber, cellulose acetate (rayon), and other synthetic rubbers.

Nylon

Nylon is also known as polyamides or synthetic polymers. On February 28th, 1935, DuPont researcher Wallace Carothers invented it. There are several applications for polymers like nylon. This polymer has an amide backbone, making it more hydrophobic than other polymers. While most plastics are pure hydrocarbon polymers, nylon is a hydrogen-bonding polymer.

Polyvinyl Chloride

Plastics made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are the third most commonly produced plastic after polypropylene and polyethylene. This PVC is favored over copper or iron for construction purposes since it is more durable and cost-efficient. PVC is used in everything from clothing to electrical wire insulation to replace rubber.

Polyethylene 

The Low-Density Polyethylene kind of synthetic polymer is the most often used in home settings. An ethylene-based thermoplastic known as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is used to manufacture other thermoplastics.

Polypropylene

A polymer made of plastic There are several uses for polypropylene. This thermoplastic synthetic polymer may be found in packaging, labeling, stationery and textiles, and reusable containers and laboratory equipment.

Thermoplastic Polymer Materials High-density polyethylene, Teflon, Teflon-coated Polystyrene, Neoprene, Polyurethane, etc.

Uses Of Synthetic Polymers

Some uses are given below-

1. Polyethylene is a polymer utilized in plastic bags and film wraps, among other applications.

2. Bottles, electrical insulation, toys, and more are all made from polyethylene, which is also used.

3. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is used for siding, pipelines, and flooring.

4. Furniture and packaging are made from the polymer Polystyrene.

5. Products that use polyvinyl acetate include latex paints and sealants.

Conclusion

We have seen that scientists and engineers can manufacture synthetic polymers from petroleum oil. Synthetic polymers include nylon, polyethylene, polyester, Teflon, and epoxy, to name a few. Pectin is a natural polymer, while vulcanized rubber is a polymer that has been made.