Additional Polymerization

• A polymer is a large molecule formed by the covalent bonding of repeating smaller molecules
• The smaller molecules that combine to form a polymer are called monomers
• Some polymers contain only one type of monomer, while others contain two or more types
• The reaction that joins monomers to form a polymer is called polymerization
• Most polymerization reactions require a catalyst
• A plasticizer is added to a polymer material to make it more flexible, increase its plasticity, increase softness, or decrease friction during handling in manufacture
• Plasticizers are used to break or weaken intermolecular forces or H-bonds between the polymer chains
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a type of addition polymerization
• Polystyrene is prepared by the polymerization of styrene
• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a type of addition polymerization
• Polyesters consist of repeating units of dicarboxylic acids and dihydroxy alcohols joined by ester bonds
• Kevlar is a polyamide formed from benzene-1,4-diamine and benzene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid by condensation
• Polyamide (Nylon 6,6) can be formed from Hexane-1,6-diamine and hexanedioyl dichloride by removing HCl molecules
• Resin is a solid or highly viscous substance that is typically convertible into polymers
• The Resin Identification Code (RIC) is a set of symbols on plastic products that identify the plastic resin used
• Plastic is a synthetic material made from polymers, which are long, repeating chains of molecules
• High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a versatile plastic widely used for consumer products
• Polypropylene is a stiffer polymer than polyethylene and is used in utensils and beverage containers
• Polypropylene is prepared by the polymerization of propene
• Polypropylene has a low risk of chemical leaching but may risk bacterial contamination after prolonged use
• Polystyrene foam is used to make protective helmets and is a poor heat conductor
• Products with Resin Identification Code 7 may contain polycarbonate, which is known to contain BPA and should not be reused for food storage
• PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) is formed from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol
• Recycled PET bottles can be used to make fabric for clothing like fleece jackets
• PET fibers are often blended with cotton for more comfortable clothing on hot, humid days
• Items with Resin Identification Code 2 typically do not contain plasticizers that could leach into food
• Items with Resin Identification Code 4 have a low risk of chemical leaching but may still risk bacterial contamination
• Items with Resin Identification Code 5 (Polypropylene) have a low risk of chemical leaching but may risk bacterial contamination after prolonged use
• Items with Resin Identification Code 6 contain styrene, a possible human carcinogen that can leach into food
• It is not advisable to reuse single-use bottles over a prolonged period due to the risk of bacterial growth and migration of chemicals
• Items with Resin Identification Code 3 are prone to chemical leaching and not recommended for reuse
• Items with Resin Identification Code 7 may contain polycarbonate, which is known to contain BPA and should not be reused for food storage
• The addition polymerization mechanism involves the reaction between monomers to form polymers.