Author: Derek Yang
Editors: Elizabeth Li, Ian Cho
Artist: Lalita Ma
Imagine a life without iPhones, toothbrushes, or straws; all these items are primarily made of plastic. That is the phenomenal impact of one area of science: polymer chemistry. The boons of polymer chemistry are found in the fundamentals of our lifestyle, from the packaging of our food to the chewing gum we enjoy. But what exactly are polymers, and how are they made?
At their root, polymers are giant molecules composed of small repeating units known as monomers. Monomers are chemically bonded into very long chains, giving polymers special properties such as flexibility, strength, and durability. The process of building these chains from monomers is called polymerization, which is usually driven by one of two routes: addition or condensation polymerization.
In addition to polymerization, double-bonded monomers, such as ethylene, are attached by opening their bonds to form one continuous chain. Common plastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene are made this way. On the other hand, condensation polymerization involves two monomers joining together by losing small molecules, usually water or methanol. This process is used to make nylon, a synthetic fiber often used in textiles. Both types of polymerization contribute considerably to the development of everyday materials, with their differences bringing about different polymer types for different uses.
One interesting aspect of polymers is their ability to change structure to gain unique properties. For example, copolymers are created by combining two or more different monomers in a single polymer chain—each unique combination creating unique results. This process can enhance or introduce new properties, making the material more versatile. Such advancements have led to breakthroughs such as medical prosthetics that improve patient comfort and mobility, made from sustainable, biodegradable plastics.
Polymers play a key role in addressing urgent ecological challenges. Biodegradable polymers like polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are naturally decomposing and reduce pollution in landfills and oceans, offering eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics. Additionally, innovations in recyclable polymers, such as polyethylene furoate (PEF), allow for materials that can be reused multiple times without losing quality, cutting down on waste. Technologies like ocean cleanup barriers made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) further demonstrate how polymers are helping reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability.
Prospects in polymer chemistry are just as bright and innovative. Experts are researching “smart polymers,” whose characteristics can be altered in response to heat, light, and pH changes. Progress has been made with many developments such as the drug delivery revolution, where smart polymers react to body triggers and release medication in the optimal dose and location. Another development is packaging made of smart polymers that can adjust to external conditions to maintain a longer shelf life and reduce food waste. Experts hope that this research could produce self-repairing polymers that last longer and have a lower environmental impact. If these developments continue to advance, greater opportunities could open up in major medical, construction, and technology fields. From lightweight composites for electric vehicles to developing eco-friendly packaging, polymers are driving progress in various industries. With promising developments occurring in polymer chemistry, society is looking forward to another massive jump in technological advancement.
Citations:
“12.15: Synthesis of Polymers.” Chemistry LibreTexts, Libretexts, 14 July 2020,
chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Organic_Chemistry/Map%3A_Organic_Chemistry_
Nghiem, Tai-Lam. “Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Application of Polymer
Compartments for Catalysis.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 24
Sept. 2020, www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/12/10/2190.
“Polymer Chemistry: Understanding Polymer Chemistry.” APR Composites | Australian
Composite Products | Composite Products Manufacturer, APR Composites,
aprcomposites.com.au/materials-science/polymer-chemistry/. Accessed 24 Sept. 2024.
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