Classification of Polymers
Structure of Polymers

Thermoplastics – Behaviour and Properties
Thermoset– Behaviour and Properties
Elastomers– Behaviour and Properties
General characteristics and applications

Structure of common polymers
Homopolymers, Copolymers, Blends and Composites
Block, Alternating and Block Copolymers

Step addition and step growth polymerization
The importance of polymerization method

Molecular weight averages and Molecular weight distribution.
Calculation of molecular weight averages
The importance of molecular weight to polymer properties

Physical (Soft,Ductile,Rigid)
Chemical(Solubility,Degradation,Crosslinking,Oxidation
Mechanical Properties
Morphological Properties

Processing Instrument for Polymeric Materials

Synthetic polymeric biomaterials
Biodegradable polymeric biomaterials
Medical Application

A1 : Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating subunits called monomers. They are essential in daily life because they are used in a wide range of materials, including plastics, rubber, textiles, and biopolymers. Their versatility makes them crucial in industries like medicine, packaging, and engineering.

A2 : Natural polymers, such as cellulose, proteins, and DNA, occur in nature and are biodegradable. Synthetic polymers, like polyethylene and polystyrene, are man-made and often designed for durability and specific applications. While synthetic polymers offer great advantages, they also pose environmental challenges due to their slow degradation.

A3 : Polymers have several unique specialties that make them essential in various applications. Here are some key specialties of polymers:

Versatility in Properties – Polymers can be engineered to be flexible, rigid, lightweight, or durable, making them suitable for a wide range of uses, from soft fabrics to strong engineering plastics.

Lightweight and High Strength – Many polymers offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for aerospace, automotive, and packaging applications where weight reduction is crucial.

Chemical Resistance – Polymers are often resistant to chemicals, water, and corrosion, which is why they are used in medical devices, containers, and protective coatings.

Electrical Insulation – Some polymers, such as rubber and plastics, are excellent electrical insulators, making them essential in electronics and wiring.

Biocompatibility – Certain polymers, such as biopolymers and hydrogels, are biocompatible, allowing their use in medical implants, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering.

Customizability – By modifying their molecular structure, polymers can be tailored for specific applications, including biodegradable plastics, self-healing materials, and shape-memory polymers.