Polymers Flashcards
Examples of addition polymers
- Polyethylene (LDPE and HDPE)
- Polyvinyl chloride
- Polystyrene
- Teflon
Example of condensation polymers
- Nylon
- Polyester
What are monomer properties which determine the properties of the polymer
- side branches –> prevents close packing and stearic hinderance where the polymer chain cant rotate creating stiff and rigid structure (stearin hinderance)
–> also increases electrons hence increasing electrons and dispersion forces - also impacts density
- non polar and polar parts —> impacts solubility in water
What is the monomer of Polyethylene
Ethene (ethylene)
Difference between LDPE and HDPE
LDPE - branched chains of carbon atoms - where molecules aren’t able to pack closely together - weaker dispersion forces
HDPE- straight chains of carbon atoms - molecules pack closely together - stronger dispersion forces
Properties of LDPE
- low density
- flexible
-soft - low melting point
Uses of LDPE
- Wrapping materials (cling wrap)
- Milk bottles/ squeeze bottles
- plastic bags
Properties of HDPE
- High melting point
- High density
- Hard
Use of HDPE
- Kitchen utensils
- toys
- grocery carry bags
- building materials
What is the monomer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Vinyl chloride - chloroethene
Properties of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Abrasion resistant
- dense
- water resistant
- resistant to inorganic chemicals
Uses of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- electrical insulation
- appliance leads
- sewage and drain pipes
- garden hoses
What is the monomer of polystyrene
ethene with a benzene ring side branch
What is the properties of polystyrene
- transparent
- hard
- brittle
- stiff
when expanded by adding gas - low density
- good insulator
Uses of polystyrene
- tool handles
- CD cases
- foam
- drinking cups
