Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Synthetic Polymers: Different Types

By Lenna Stockwell


Appreciating synthetic polymers can be done because these are polymers made by man which have become highly useful. Polymers are molecules consisting of chains of multiple repeating units and are found naturally, as well as being created artificially. The DNA of human beings is a naturally occurring polymer, as well as all the important proteins in each of our bodies. The manufacture of synthetic polymers can be done and synthetic polymers can be grouped into four main groupings.

Synthetic polymers have properties that are common and synthetic fibers are examples of a type of synthetic polymers. Resistance to chemicals as well as fungi and insects are properties of these fibers which also do not absorb moisture. These synthetic fibers are used to replace silk which is a natural fiber, and the reason for this is that these are fibers that cost less to produce. Examples are nylon, spandex, rayon, and these are just some of the common types of synthetic fibers.

Elastomers are another type of synthetic polymer and as the name suggests, these are polymers with a high amount of elasticity. Products made from elastomers are generally flexible such as shoe soles and tires. There are many different elastomers such as silicone rubber which often is used as a sealant.

Thermosets is yet another category of synthetic polymer and this is also known as a thermosetting plastic. This is a type of polymer that is formed into a product or item using heat and once it has dried and set it irreversibly cured. This "cure" is applied during the heating process. Because these thermoplastics cannot be re-melted and formed into new shapes or products, they are not highly recyclable although sometimes they can be shredded or broken down and used to help make other items. One example of a thermosetting plastic is vulcanized rubber which is used to make tires.

Thermoplastics have also similarities, like the thermoset plastics, although with some important differences. Thermoplastics do not change in its chemical form when heated, and these can be melted and re-melted and reused. Most of these thermoplastics are not biodegradable products but these are also recyclable products.

Several millions of packaging products are produced each year and these are the thermoplastics used. Many thermoforming companies are producing these and these are the custom product packages produced. Several storage containers are made using thermoplastics and these are water bottles, milk jugs, and other food storage packaging products. Other products are also made using this type made by the thermoforming companies, other than the custom packaging products they produce. You may also know some of these products like PVC pipes as well as items made using Teflon and Styrofoam.




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