Polymer Fundamentals

Table of Contents

1. Characteristics of Polymers
   1. Natural vs. Synthetic Polymers
   2. Advantages and Limitations of Polymers
   3. Naming Conventions
   4. Degree of Polymerization
2. Polymer Synthesis and Structure
   1. Synthesis of Polymers
      1. Chain Growth
      2. Step Growth
   2. Polymer Structure
      1. Chain Architecture
         1. Linear Chains
         2. Branched Chains
         3. Networks
         4. Cycles
         5. Stars
      2. Chain Chemistry
         1. Homopolymers
         2. Copolymers and Terpolymers
      3. Chain Sequence
         1. Random
         2. Taper (Gradient)
         3. Block
         4. Alternating
3. Polymer Properties
   1. Mechanical Properties
      1. Solid Properties: Strength
      2. Solid Properties: Elasticity
      3. Solid Properties: Modulus (Stiffness)
      4. Solid Properties: Strain-to-Failure
      5. Solid Properties: Toughness
      6. Solid Properties: Ductility
      7. Liquid Properties: Viscosity
      8. Liquid Properties: Viscoelasticity
   2. Thermal Properties
      1. Glass Transition Temperature
      2. Melting Transition Temperature
      3. Thermal Conductivity
      4. Thermal Expansion Coefficient
      5. Decomposition Temperature
   3. Functional Properties
      1. Electrical Properties: Arc Resistance
      2. Electrical Properties: Dielectric Constant
      3. Electrical Properties: Dielectric Strength
      4. Optical Properties: Luminous Transmittance
      5. Optical Properties: Specular Gloss
4. Polymer Physical States and Classifications
   1. Liquids
   2. Solids
      1. Crystalline Solids and Amorphous Glasses
         1. Thermoplastics
      2. Chemically Crosslinked
         1. Thermoset Elastomers
         2. Thermosets
      3. Physically Crosslinked
         1. Thermoplastic Elastomers
5. Polymer Processing Methods
   1. Extrusion
   2. Molding
   3. Pultrusion