Institute of Aeronautical Engineering

POLYMERS-CLASSIFICATION-TYPESOF POLYMERIZATON
By
Dr.V.N.S.R.VENKATESWARARAO
Associate Professor
Department of Chemistry
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Hyderabad-500043. DON’T WRITE
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Topics to be covered :
 Definition
 Classification with examples
 Addition polymerization
 Condensation polymerization
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 Co-polymerization OR PLACE ANY
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Polymers-Definition
 Polymers can be defined as the large molecules
(macro molecular) formed by the linkage of
small molecules called monomers.
 In Greek language poly means many & mer
means units
 E.g.: poly ethylene
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 nCH2 = CH2 polymerization (CH2 - CH2 )n OR PLACE ANY
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Monomers
 Thus the repeated unit of polymer is called
monomer.
 The number of repeating units in a polymer
chain is called degree of polymerization.
 For e.g.:- if 100 molecules of ethylene
polymerize to give the polymer chain, the
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degree of polymerization is 100. OR PLACE ANY
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Classification
 Polymers cannot be classified under one
category because of their complex structures,
different behaviours, and vast applications. We
can, therefore, classify polymers based on the
following considerations.
 Classification of Polymers based on the Source
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 There are three types of classification under IMAGE IN THIS
this category, namely, Natural, Synthetic, and AREA.
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Semi-synthetic Polymers. .
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Classification
 Natural Polymers:
 They occur naturally and are found in plants and
animals. For example proteins, starch, cellulose,
and rubber. To add up, we also have
biodegradable polymers which are called
biopolymers.
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 Semi-synthetic Polymers: OR PLACE ANY
 They are derived from naturally occurring IMAGE IN THIS
polymers and undergo further chemical AREA.
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modification. .
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Classification
 For example, cellulose nitrate, cellulose acetate.
 Synthetic Polymers:
 These are man-made polymers. Plastic is the
most common and widely used synthetic
polymer. It is used in industries and various dairy
products.
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 For example, nylon-6, 6, polyether’s etc. OR PLACE ANY
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Classification
 Classification of Polymers based on the
Structure of the Monomer Chain
 This category has the following classifications:
 Linear Polymers
 The structure of polymers containing long and
straight chains fall into this category. PVC, i.e.
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poly-vinyl chloride is largely used for making OR PLACE ANY
pipes and electric cables is an example of a IMAGE IN THIS
linear polymer. AREA.
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Classification
 Branched-chain Polymers
 When linear chains of a polymer form branches,
then, such polymers are categorized as
branched chain polymers. For example, Low-
density polythene.
 Cross-linked Polymers
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 They are composed of bifunctional and OR PLACE ANY
trifunctional monomers. They have a IMAGE IN THIS
stronger covalent bond in comparison to other AREA.
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linear polymers. Example:Bakelite and melamine .
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Classification
 Other Ways to Classify Polymers

 Classification Based on Polymerization

 Addition Polymerization: Example, poly ethane,

Teflon, Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) DON’T WRITE
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 Condensation Polymerization: Example, Nylon - AREA.
6, 6, perylene, polyesters. .
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Classification
 Classification Based on Monomers
 Homomer: In this type, a single type of
monomer unit is present. For example,
Polyethene
 Heteropolymer or co-polymer: It consists of
different type of monomer units. For example,
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nylon -6, 6 OR PLACE ANY
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Classification
 Classification Based on Molecular Forces
 Elastomers: These are rubber-like solids weak
interaction forces are present. For example,
Rubber.
 Fibres: Strong, tough, high tensile strength and
strong forces of interaction are present. For
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example, nylon -6, 6. OR PLACE ANY
 Thermoplastics: These have intermediate forces IMAGE IN THIS
of attraction. For example, polyvinyl chloride. AREA.
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Classification
 Thermosetting polymers: These polymers
greatly improve the material’s mechanical
properties. It provides enhanced chemical and
heat resistance. For example, phenolics, epoxies,
and silicones.

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Addition polymerization
 This is also called as chain growth
polymerization.
 In this, small monomer units joined to form a
giant polymer. In each step length of chain
increases.
 For example, Polymerization of ethane in the
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presence of Peroxides. OR PLACE ANY
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Condensation polymerization
 In this type small molecules like H2O, CO,
NH3 are eliminated during polymerization (step
growth polymerization).
 Generally, organic compounds containing
bifunctional groups such as idols, -dials,
diamines, dicarboxylic acids undergo this type of
polymerization reaction. DON’T WRITE
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 For example, Preparation of nylon -6, 6. IMAGE IN THIS
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Co-polymerization
 In this process, two different monomers joined
to form a polymer.
 Synthetic rubbers are prepared by this
polymerization. For example, BUNA – S.

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Institute of Aeronautical Engineering

Thank You
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