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Related Concept Videos

Polymer Classification: Architecture01:14

Polymer Classification: Architecture

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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...
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Plasticizers01:31

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Water-reducers, or plasticizers, are chemical admixtures used in concrete to improve strength and workability. These additives reduce the water-cement ratio without compromising workability, lower the cement content while maintaining the same workability, or increase workability to assist concrete placement in inaccessible areas.
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Polymer Classification: Stereospecificity01:26

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Polymerization generates chiral centers along the entire backbone of a polymer chain. Accordingly, the stereochemistry of the substituent group has a significant effect on polymer properties. Polymers formed from monosubstituted alkene monomers feature chiral carbons at every alternate position in the polymer backbone. Relative to the predominant orientation of substituents at the adjacent chiral carbons, the polymer can exist in three different configurations: isotactic, syndiotactic, and...
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Unlike ionic or small covalent molecules, polymers do not form crystalline solids due to the diffusion limitations of their long-chain structures. However, polymers contain microscopic crystalline domains separated by amorphous domains.
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Free-Radical Chain Reaction and Polymerization of Alkenes02:35

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The conversion of alkenes to macromolecules called polymers is a reaction of high commercial importance. The structure of the polymer is defined by a repeating unit, while the terminal groups are considered insignificant. The average degree of polymerization represents the number of repeating units in the polymer molecule and is denoted by the subscript n.
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Molecular Models02:00

Molecular Models

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Physical models representing molecular architectures of chemical compounds play essential roles in understanding chemistry. The use of molecular models makes it easier to visualize the structures and shapes of atoms and molecules.
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Updated: Sep 16, 2025

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Mapping the chemical complexity of plastics.

L Monclús1,2, H P H Arp3,4, K J Groh5

  • 1Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway. laura.monclus@ntnu.no.

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|July 9, 2025
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Summary

This study inventories 16,325 plastic chemicals, identifying over 4,200 chemicals of concern due to their hazardous properties. The findings aim to guide the development of safer, sustainable plastics and reduce pollution.

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Area of Science:

  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Materials Science
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Plastic pollution poses a significant global challenge.
  • Chemicals within plastics are often overlooked in mitigation strategies.
  • A comprehensive understanding of plastic chemicals is crucial for human health and environmental protection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To create an inventory of known plastic chemicals, detailing their properties, presence, and hazards.
  • To identify chemicals of concern within the plastic lifecycle.
  • To inform the transition towards safer and more sustainable plastic materials.

Main Methods:

  • Compilation of an inventory of 16,325 plastic chemicals.
  • Classification of chemicals by function (additives, processing aids, etc.).
  • Hazard assessment using a persistence, bioaccumulation, mobility, and toxicity (PBT) framework.

Main Results:

  • Identified 5,776 additives, 3,498 processing aids, 1,975 starting substances, and 1,788 non-intentionally added substances.
  • Over 4,200 chemicals were identified as hazardous (persistent, bioaccumulative, mobile, or toxic).
  • 15 priority chemical groups were identified, with over 40% of members being of concern.

Conclusions:

  • The study maps the chemical landscape of plastics, highlighting significant hazards.
  • Identified data gaps in chemical properties, hazards, uses, and exposure.
  • Recommends removing hazardous chemicals, disclosing composition, and simplifying formulations for safer plastics.