Polymers
Polymers
Polymers
Polymers (in Greek, poly = many and meros = parts) are very high molecular mass substances, each molecule of which consists of a
very large number of simple structural units joined together through covalent bonds.
The simple molecules from which the repeating structural units are derived are called monomers and the process by which these
simple molecules, i.e. monomers are converted into polymers is called polymerization.
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Q. 1. Define the term 'polymerisation.' [AI 08]
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Classification of polymers
A. Depending upon the origin, polymers are classified into two classes.
Natural polymers: Found in nature, i.e. in animals & plants. For eg: Proteins, Cellulose, Nucleic acids, Natural rubber ….etc
Synthetic polymers: They are man-made polymers. For eg: polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), bakelite, nylon, etc.
B. Classification based upon structure
Linear polymers: Monomer units are joined together to form long straight chains. They have high melting points, high densities and
high tensile strengths due to the close packing of polymer chains. For example: nylon, polyester, high density polythene, etc.
Branched chain polymers: Monomer units are linked together to form long chains having branches along the main chain (linear
chain). They have lower densities, lower melting points and lower tensile strengths as compared to linear polymers because the chains
are not closely packed together due to the presence of branches. For example: low density polythene, glycogen, amylopectin, etc.
Three-dimensional network polymers: linear chains are joined together by cross links to form three-dimensional network. They are
also called cross-linked polymers due to the presence of cross links. They are hard, rigid and brittle because of their network
structure. For example: bakelite, melamine-formaldehyde resin, urea-formaldehyde resin, etc.
C. Classification based on the types of monomers
Homo polymers: In which one type of monomer repeatedly combines with each other to form polymer For example: Polyethylene is
obtained by polymerization of ethylene molecule, i.e. the repeating structural unit is –CH2–CH2–.
Polymerization
n(CH2 = CH2 ) → (– CH2 − CH2 −)
Ethylene monomer Polyethene
Other examples are polypropylene, polyisoprene, teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), neoprene
(polychloroprene), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), nylon-6, polybutadiene, cellulose, starch, etc.
Copolymers: In which two or more type of monomer repeatedly combines with each other to form polymer. For example: Nylon-66
is obtained by polymerization of two different monomers, i.e. hexamethylenediamine & adipic acid.
Other examples are Buna-S, polyesters, alkyd resins, bakelite, melamine-formaldehyde resin, etc.
D. Classification based upon synthesis
Addition polymers: They are formed by addition of the monomers, without the loss of simple molecules. For example: Polythene
Condensation polymers: They are formed by the combination of monomers with the loss of simple molecules such as water, alcohol,
ammonia, carbon dioxide, hydrogen chloride, etc. For example: nylon-66 is obtained by adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine with
the loss of water molecules.
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For example: Polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene, polybutadiene, Teflon, etc.
Step growth polymers: Formed by reaction proceeds by stepwise intermolecular condensation. Process does not depend on free
radical or ions. In this polymerization the monomer molecules have more than one similar or dissimilar functional group. If, one of
reacting molecules has two F.G. & other has one F.G. , i.e. acetic acid and ethylene glycol, the reaction stops after two steps:
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These branched polythene molecules do not pack well and hence this type of polythene has a low density (0.92 g/cm3) and a low
melting point (384 K). That is why polythene prepared by free radical polymerization is called low density polythene (LDP).
Properties: Transparent, moderate tensile strength, high toughness, chemically inert, slightly flexible & poor conductor of electricity.
Uses: Packaging material (thin plastic films, bags, etc.), insulation for electrical wires and cables, squeze botles, toys & flexible pipes
(b) High density polythene (HDP) or High density polyethylene (HDPE).
Preparation:
Properties: Flexible and inert to solvents and to boiling acids even to aqua regia andis stable upto 598K.
Uses: For making nonstick utensils, For making gaskets, pump packings, valves, seals, non-lubricated bearings, filter cloth, etc.
3. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) or Orlon
Monomer acrylonitrile is manufactured either by addition of HCN to acetylene in presence of CuCl/HC1 as catalyst or by passing a
mixture of propene, ammonia & air over catalyst consisting of mixture of oxides of molybdenum, cobalt & aluminium at 723K.
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Or
Properties: hard and high melting material
Uses: As a substitute for wool in the manufacture of Orlon and Acrilan fibres which are used for making clothes, carpets and blankets.
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Q. 1. Write the names and structures of the monomers of the following polymers:
(i) Polythene [DB 09, 13][AI 09,09C, 11] (ii) Teflon [DB 09, 10, 10C, 13] [SP 09][AI 10, 11]
Q. 2. What is the role of Benzoyl peroxide in polymerisation of ethene? [SP 09]
Q. 4. What are LDPE and HDPE? How are they prepared? [SP 09]
Q. 3. Write chemical equations to form the following: (i) Polythene [AI 09C] (ii) Teflon [DB 11C]
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Some Important Condensation Polymers:
1. Polyamide. They have amide linkages. They are prepared by the condensation polymerization of dibasic acids with diamines or
their equivalents. These polymers are commonly called nylons. The name NYLON (NY = New York and LON = London) is given to
these fibers since the most common nylon i.e. nylon-6, 6 was simultaneously prepared in New York and London.
(a) Nylon 6, 6:
Preparation:
It is called nylon – 6, 6 (read as nylon six, six) since both adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine contain six carbon atoms each.
(b) Nylon 6,10: (read as nylon six, ten) which is obtained by the condensation of hexamethylenediamine (containing six carbon
atoms) and sebacic acid containing ten carbon atoms.
Uses: Unlike cotton fibres, nylon fibres do not rot, have high tensile strength, are tough, abrasion resistant and somewhat elastic.
These are, therefore, used in the manufacture of cirpets, textile fibres and bristles for brushes.
Further nylon fibres are so much stronger than the natural materials that these can be made much thinner. The availability of such a
strong thin thead made possible nearly invisible women's stockings called “nylons”
Being tough nylon is used as a substitute for metals in bearings and gears.
Crinkted nylon fibres are used for making elastic hoisery.
(c) Nylon 6 or Perlon: It is called as nylon-6 (read as nylon six) since the monomer (caprolactam; contains six carbon atoms).
Preparation:
Uses: It is used for the manufacture of tyre cords, fabrics and mountaineering ropes.
2. Polyesters: They have ester linkages, they are prepared by the condensation polymerization of di acids with diols.
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Properties: highly crease-resistant, durable & has low moisture content, It is aiso not damaged by pests like moths and mildew.
Uses: Wash & wear fabric, tyre cords, seat belts & sails. Blended with cotton and wool to increase their resistance to wear and tear.
3. Phenol-formaldehyde Polymers (Bakelite and related polymers).
Properties and Uses: soft bakelites with low degree of polymerization are used as binding glue for laminated wooden planks, & in
varnishes & lacquers. High degree polymerization leads to formation of hard bakelite which is highly cross-linked & is therrnosetting
polymer. It is a scratch and water resistant polymer and hence is used for the manufacture of combs, formica table tops, fountain pen
barrels, phonograph records, computer discs, etc. It also possesses excellent electrical insutating properties and hence is widely used in
making electical goods (switches, plugs, handles of various utensils, etc). sulphonated bakelites are used as ion exanchange resins.
4 Melamine formaldehyde polymers:
Uses: Melamine-formaldehyde copolymer is widely used for making non-breakable plastic crockery, i.e., cups and plates made from
melamine polymer are hard and do not break on being dropped.
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Q. 1. Write the names and structures of the monomers of the following polymers:
(i) Bakelite [DB 13][SP 09][AI 09C, 10] (ii) Nylon-6 [DB 08, 10C, 13][SP 09][AI 09C, 10] (iii) Nylon–6, 6 [DB 10C, 12, 13]
(iv) Polystyrene [DB 13] (v) Terylene or Dacron [DB 10C, 11, 11C, 13][AI 11][SP 11] (vi) Nylon 2 [SP 09]
Q. 2. In nylon 6, 6 what does the designation '6, 6' mean? [DB 09, 11][AI 09, 10]
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Since each repeating unit in polyisoprene contains a double bond, it may have either a cis− or a trans−orientation'
Actually, in natural rubber, all the double bonds have cis- stereochemistry. In natural other words, rubber is cis- polyisoprene. In
contrast, synthetic rubber (gutta−percha) obtained by free radical polymerization of isoprene has all trans-configuration.
Prpoerties:
There are no polar groups/substituents and hence intermolecular forces of attaction are only weak van dar waals interactions.
These forces are further weakened because of the cis-configuration of all the double bonds which does not allow the polymer chains to
come close enough for effective interactions. Thus, cis-polyisoprene daes not have a stirgnt chain but has a coiled structure. As a
result it can be streched like a spring on stretching, the molecules become partiatly aligned w.r.t. eaeh other and on withdrawing the
force the chains come back to their original coiled state. Thus, natural rubber is elastic. Further due to coiled structure, natural rubber
does not fit closely in the crystal lattice and hence is considered to be non-crystalline.
In contrast, due to trans orientation of double bonds, gutta percha (Synthetic Rubber) has highly regular zig-zag chains which cannot
be stretched much. Therefore, gutta percha is considered to be non elastic. In contrast, due to highly regular zig-zag structure, gutta
percha fits closely in the crystal lattice and hence is considered to cryrtalline.
Disadvantages of Natural rubber: It is soft and sticky and becomes even more at high temperatures and brittle at low temperatures.
Therefore, rubber is generally used in the temperature range 283-335 K where its elasticity is maintained. It has a large water
absorption capacity, has low tensile-strength and low resistance to abrasion. It is also not-resistant to the action of organic solvents and
is also easily attacked by oxidising agents.
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Vulcanized Rubber
Vulcanization: (Charles Goodyear in 1839): It consists of heating raw rubber with sulphur at 373−415K. Since this process is slow,
therefore, additives like zinc oxide, etc. are used to accelerate the rate of vulcanization.
Properties: excellent elasticity, low water absorption tendency and is resistant to organic solvents and oxidising agents.
During vulcanization sulphur bridges or cross-links between polymer chains are introduced either at their reactive allylic positions or
at the sites of the double bonds. These cross links make rubber hard and stronger and remove the tackiness of natural rubber since the
individual chains can no longer slip over the other but are instead locked together in a giant size molecule.
The extent of hardness depends upon the amount of sulphur added. Thus, about 5% sulphur is used for making tyre rubber, 20−25% S
for making ebonite and30% S for making battery case rubber.
Synthetic Rubbers
Definition: Any vulcanisable rubber like polymer which is capable of getting stretched to twice its length.
Synthetic rubbers are either homo polymers of 1, 3-butadiene or its derivatives or are copolymers of 1, 3-butadiene or its derivatives
with another unsaturated monomer.
Some important synthetic rubbers:
1. Neoprene. It is a polymer of chloroprene (2−chloro−l ,3−butadiene) and is also called polychloroprene
Uses: Neoprene is inferior to natural rubber in some properties but superior in its stability to aerial oxidation and in its resistance to
vegetable or mineral oils. It is, therefore, used in the manufacture of hoses, gaskets, shoe heels, stoppers, etc. It is also used as an
insulator and for making conveyor belts and printing rollers.
2. Buna−S: Copolymerization of a mixture of 1,3−butadiene and styrene in the ratio 3:1 in presence of sodium gives
styrene−butadiene copolymer commonly called as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) or Buna-S. In Buna−S, Bu stands for butadiene,
na for sodium which is the polymerising agent and S stands for styrene.
Properties & Uses: It is very tough and is a good substitute for natural rubber. It possesses high abrasion resistance, high load bearing
capacity and is used for the manufacture of automobile tyres. It is also used for making floor tiles, footwear components, cable
insulation, etc.
3. Buna-N or Nitrile rubber.
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Properties & uses: It vary according to the ratio of both the acids (monomers) whereas 3−hydroxybutanoic acid provides stiffness,
3−hydroxypeltanoic acid imparts flexibility to the copolymer. It is used in speciality packaging, orthopaedic devices and in controlled
drug release. When drug is enclosed in a capsule of PHBV, it is released only when the polymer is degraded in the body. PHBV also
undergoes bacterial degradation in the environment.
2. Poly(glycollic acid) Poly (lactic acid) or dextron:
Properties & Uses: As sutures, i.e., for Stitching of wounds after operation. This polymer gets degraded within the body in about a
week's time. During this degradation, the polymer undergoes hydrolysis to form small non-toxic molecules which are excreted without
causing any harm to the body.
3. Nylon−2−Nylon−6: It is an alternating polyamide of glycine (containing two carbon atoms) and ϵ − aminocaproic acid or 6−
aminohexanoic acid. (containing six carbon atoms)
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Q. 1. What are biodegradable polymers? Give an example of such a polymer and mention its uses. [DB 09C, 11][AI 10][SP 11]
Q. 2. Write reaction involved in the preparation of biodegradable polyester [SP 11]
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CONDENSATION or STEP GROWTH POLYMERS
POLYMER MONOMER USES
1. Polyesters (Terylene) Dacron Terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol Ropes, safety belts, tyre-cord
2. Glyptal (Alkyl Resin) Phthalic acid and ethylene glycol Binding material, paints and lacquers
3. Nylon-6 Caprolactum (cyclic amide) Fiber, plastic, tyre-cords and ropes
4. Nylon-66 Adipic acid and hexamethylenediamine Stockings, shirts, ropes
5. Bakelite Phenol and formaldehyde Electric switches and switch boards
6. Melamine formaldehyde resin Melamine and HCHO Crockery
7. Urea formaldehyde resin Urea and HCHO Crockery and laminated sheets.
Important synthetic polymers along with their starting materials
NAME OF ABBREVI STARTING NATURE OF PROPERTIES APPLICATIONS
POLYMER ATION MATERIALS POLYMERS
(1) ADDTION POLYMERS
(I) POLYOLEFINES
(a) HDPE CH2=CH2 High density Transparent, Packing material carry bags
Polyethylene (High homopolymer, moderate tensile insulation for electrical wires
Or density linear, chain Strength high and cables, buckets, tubs
Polyethene polyethene) growth. toughness house ware, pipes, bottles and
LDPE CH2=CH2 Low density Transluscent toys.
(Low homopolymers chemically inert
density (branched) chain greater tensile
polytehene) growth. strength toughness.
(b) PP CH3CH=CH2 Homopolymer, Harder and Packing of textiles and foods,
Polypropylene Linear, chain stronger than liners for bags, heat shrinkage
Or growth. polyethene. wraps carpet fibers ropes,
Polypropene automobile mouldings,
stronger pipes and bottles.
(c) Polystyrene C6H5CH=CH2 Homopolymer, Transparent Plastic toys, house hold wares,
Or linear, chain radio and television bodies
Styron growth refrigerator linings
(II) POLYDIENES
(a) Neoprene Cl Homopolymer, Rubber like, Hoses, shoe heels stoppers.
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CH 2 − CH − C = CH 2 chain growth. inferior to natural
Chloropren e or
2- Chloro -1, 3 - butadiene rubber & superior
resistant to aerial
oxidation and oils
gasoline etc.
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(b) Buna-S SBR CH 3 = CH − CH = CH 2 Copolymer chain Rubber like. Manufacture of tyres rubber
1 and 3 − butadiene and
(Styrene, growth. Inferior to natural sols water proof shoes.
and
Butadiene rubber & superior
C6 H 5 CH = CH 2
Rubbber) (sty rene)in the presence of Na resistation to aerial
oxidation and oils
gasoline etc.
(III) POLYACRYLATES
(a) PMMA CH 3 Copolymer Hard transparent, Lenses light covers lights,
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Polymethacryl CH 2 = C − COOCH 3 excellent light shades Signboards transparent
ate (flexiglas, transmission, domes skylight aircraft
lucite, acrylite optical clarity window, dentures and plastic
and perspex better than glass Jewellery.
takes up colours.
(b)Polyethylacr CH2=CH–COOC2H5 Copolymer Tough. rubber like Orlon, acrilon used for making
ylate product clothes, carpets blankets and
(c) PAN CH2=CH–CN Copolymer Hard, horney and preparation of other polymers.
Polyacrylonitri high melting
le materials
(IV)POLYHALO OLEFINES
(a) Polyvinyl PVC CH2=CH–Cl Homopolymer Thermoplastic used in rain coats hand bags,
chloride chains growth. shower curtains, fabrics, shoe
soles, vinyl flooring (ii) Good
electrical insulator (iii) Hose
pipes
(b) PTFE F2C=CF2 Homoplymer, Flexible & inert to (i) For nonstick utensils
Polytetrafluoro high melting solvents, even aqua coating (ii) Making gaskets.
et-hylene point regia. Stable upto Pump packings valves, seals,
or Teflon 598 K. non lubricated bearings.
(d) PCTFE ClFC=CF2 Homopolymer Less resistant to Similar to those of teflon.
Polymonochlor heat and chemicals
otri- due to presence of
fluorethylene chlorine atoms
(2) CONDENSATION POLYMERS
(I) POLYSTERS
(a) Terylene or PET HO – CH2–CH2–OH Copolymer, Step Fibre crease For wash and wear fabrics,
Dacron Polyethyle (Ethylene glycol) growth linear resistant, low tyre cords seat belts and sails.
ne And moisture
terephthalat HOOC–C6H5–COOH absorption, not
e (Terephthalic acid) damaged by pests
like moths etc.
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(b) Nylon 610 H 2 N − [CH 2 ]6 − NH 2 Copolymer, Thermoplastic, (i) Textile fabrics, carpets,
Hexamethy lene diamine
linear, step high tensile bristles for brushes etc.
and
growth strength, abrasion (ii) Substitute of metals in
HOOC[CH 2 ]8 COOH
Sebacic acid resistant. bearings
(iii) Gears elastic hosiery.
(c) Nylon 6 or Caprolactu m or Homopolymer, Thermoplastic high Mountainering ropes, tyre
H 2 N = [CH 2 ]5 − COOH
Perlon − Am inocaproic acid linear tensile strength, cords, fabrics.
abrasion resistant.
(3) FORMALADEHYDE RESINS
(a)Phenol Phenol and Copolymer, step Thermosetting (i) With low degree
formaldehyde formaldehyde. growth polymer, hard and polymerisation –as bindings
resin or brittle glue for wood, varnishes,
Bakelite lacquers. (ii) With high degree
polymerisation-for combs, for
mica table tops, fountain pen
barrels electrical goods
(switches and plugs).
(b) Melamine Melamine and Copolymer, step Thermosetting Non-breakable crockery.
formalde hyde formaldehyde. growth polymer, hard but
resin. not so breakable.
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Q. 1. Write names of monomers & structures of the following polymers:
(i) Glyptal [DB 11C] (ii) Polypropene [DB 12] (iii) PVC [AI 10C, 10, 11][DB 10C]
Q. 2.Differentiate the following pair of polymers based on the property mentioned against each. [SP 09]
(i) Novolac and Bakelite (structure) [SP 09] (ii) Buna-s and Terylene (intermolecular forces of attraction) [SP 09]
Q.2. Write the names of the monomers of polymer used for making unbreakable crockery. [SP 13]
Q. 3. Arrange the following polymers in decreasing order of intermolecular forces.
(i) PVC, Nylon 66, Natural rubber. [SP 13] (ii) Nylon 6, Buna-S, Polythene [SP 11]
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