
Polymers • large molecules made by linking smaller, single unit (monomers) together • Many natural polymers form important organic molecules such as DNA, and proteins • Synthetic polymers are also often made into plastics and textiles such as nylon, teflon, PVC, polyethene, etc.
Polymerization • formation of polymers from the reaction of monomers • May occur in nature, however, manufacturers have learned how to synthetically produce many types of useful polymers.
Addition Polymerization • many unsaturated monomers with double or triple bonds join together in addition reactions Ex: Polyethylene production • Plastic Animations
Ex) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) • used to make many plastics used to insulate wires, fabrics for raincoats and upholstery material and vinyl records.
Condensation Polymers • involve the condensing or removal of a small molecule such as H2O, NH3 or HCl from the functional groups of two different monomers to form a polymer
A) Esterification Polymerization: alcohol and carboxylic acid monomers. Ex) polyester
Ex) Amide Linkage (NH2 group) Amide -proteins in living things, nylon
Natural Polymers • Lipids –glycerol and fatty acids monomers • Proteins – amino acid monomers • Carbohydrates –monosaccharides(sugar) monomers • Cellulose-glucose monomers • Wood, paper, cotton • Animation Gallery
Synthetic Polymers • Polyesters • Polyamides (nylon) • Kevlar
Videos • Proteins: Structure and Function (Complete Video) • Saturated and Unsaturated Fats and Oils • Synthesis of Organic Compounds • Pharmaceuticals • Petrochemical Industry • The Age of Polymers (Complete Video) • Plastic Videos