Polymers are very large molecule structures that are chain-like in nature.
Polymers are defined as high molecular mass macromolecules, which are composed of repeating structural units, on a large scale, derived from their corresponding monomers.
Polymerization is the process of the formation of polymers.
Most polymers are made up of hydrocarbons (H and C).
Saturated hydrocarbons are those where each carbon is bonded to four other atoms.
Natural Polymers are found on living organisms such as plants and animals.
Semi-synthetic Polymers are derived from natural sources but are synthesized.
Synthetic Polymers are man-made polymers.
Linear Polymers are long and straight chains.
Branched Chain Polymers are linear chains with branches.
Cross linked or Network Polymers are formed from bi- and tri-functional monomers bounded by strong covalent bonds between linear polymers.
Addition Polymers, also known as Chain Growth Polymers, are formed by repeating addition of monomers.
Homopolymers are single monomeric species.
Copolymers are two different monomers.
Condensation Polymers, also known as Step Growth Polymers, are formed by repeated condensation between bi- and tri-functional monomers, with a byproduct of usually alcohol and water.
Elastomers are rubber-like solids with elastic properties.
Fibers are thread forming solids with high tensile strength and high modulus.
Thermoplastics Polymers are linear or slight branched chains, examples include thermoplastics like polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyls.
Thermosetting Polymers are crosslinked or heavily branched long chains.