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Related Concept Videos

Polymers02:34

Polymers

41.8K
The word polymer is derived from the Greek words “poly” which means “many” and “mer” which means “parts”. Polymers are long chains of molecules composed of repeating units of smaller molecules, known as monomers. They either occur naturally, such as DNA and proteins, or can be constructed synthetically, like plastics. They have varied structural characteristics, such as linear chains, branched chains, or complex networks, that contribute to the...
41.8K
Polymers02:34

Polymers

23.4K
23.4K
Polymer Classification: Architecture01:14

Polymer Classification: Architecture

4.0K
Polymers are classified as linear or branched on the basis of their chain architecture. The polymer chains in linear polymers have a long chain-like structure with minimal to no branching at all. Even if a polymer features large substituent groups on the monomer, which appear as branches to the skeleton, it is not considered a branched polymer. A branched polymer contains secondary polymer chains that arise from the main polymer chain. The branching occurs when the polymer growth shifts from...
4.0K
Characteristics and Nomenclature of Homopolymers01:00

Characteristics and Nomenclature of Homopolymers

4.2K
Polymers that are made up of identical monomer units are called homopolymers. Only one repeating unit is involved in the construction of the homopolymer structure. For example, as depicted in Figure 1, polypropylene is a homopolymer constituted of propylene monomers. Here, the only repeating unit in the polymer chain is propylene.
4.2K
Characteristics and Nomenclature of Copolymers01:24

Characteristics and Nomenclature of Copolymers

3.4K
Copolymers are the products obtained from the polymerization of multiple monomer species. So, in a polymer chain itself, there can be multiple repeating units that come from different monomers. The process of synthesizing a polymer from different monomer species is called copolymerization. When two monomers are involved, the polymer is known as a bipolymer. Polymers with three and four monomers are termed terpolymers and quaterpolymers, respectively. Figure 1 depicts the copolymerization of...
3.4K
Types of Step-Growth Polymers: Polyesters01:20

Types of Step-Growth Polymers: Polyesters

2.6K
The introduction of polyesters has brought major development to the textile industry. The wrinkle-free behavior of polyester blends has eliminated the need for starching and ironing clothes.
Polyesters are commonly prepared from terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol; the crude product is known as poly(ethylene terephthalate) or PET. However, polyesters are synthesized industrially by transesterification of dimethyl terephthalate with ethylene glycol at 150 °C. The two reactants and the polymer...
2.6K

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Updated: Feb 25, 2026

Depolymerizable Olefinic Polymers Based on Fused-Ring Cyclooctene Monomers
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Depolymerizable Olefinic Polymers Based on Fused-Ring Cyclooctene Monomers

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Polymers in our daily life.

Hassan Namazi1,2

  • 1Research Laboratory of Dendrimers and Nanopolymers, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.

Bioimpacts : BI
|July 29, 2017
PubMed
Summary

Polymers are essential advanced materials impacting daily life through diverse applications. This editorial highlights their significant pragmatic roles across science, technology, and industry.

Keywords:
MacromoleculeMonomerNatural polymerPolymerSynthetic polymer

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Area of Science:

  • Materials Science
  • Polymer Science
  • Chemical Engineering

Background:

  • Polymers represent a cornerstone of modern materials science, integral to countless everyday items.
  • Their versatility spans from basic commodity plastics to sophisticated biopolymers and therapeutic agents.
  • The increasing relevance of polymers necessitates a focused examination of their societal impact.

Discussion:

  • This editorial emphasizes the profound and practical influence of polymers on human daily life.
  • It explores the broad spectrum of polymer applications, underscoring their indispensability.
  • The discussion highlights the evolution of polymers from simple materials to advanced functional systems.

Key Insights:

  • Polymers are ubiquitous, fundamental to technological advancement and industrial innovation.
  • Their applications range from packaging and textiles to advanced medical devices and drug delivery systems.
  • Understanding polymer properties and applications is crucial for future material development.

Outlook:

  • Future research will likely focus on sustainable polymers, biodegradable materials, and advanced polymer composites.
  • The development of novel polymers will continue to drive innovation in medicine, energy, and electronics.
  • Continued exploration of polymer science promises solutions to global challenges.