P

Polymer

(A-B)_n: repeat unit linked by covalent bonds; DP = degree of polymerisation
AllChemicals — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/658-polymer
Quick Reference
Formula / Notation(A-B)_n: repeat unit linked by covalent bonds; DP = degree of polymerisation
Also Known AsMacromolecule, polymer chain, synthetic polymer, biopolymer (biological context)

What is Polymer?

A large macromolecule composed of many repeating structural units (monomers) linked by covalent bonds. Natural polymers include proteins, DNA, and cellulose. Synthetic polymers include polyethylene, nylon, and PVC. Properties depend on monomer type, chain length, and arrangement.

Formula & Notation

(A-B)_n: repeat unit linked by covalent bonds; DP = degree of polymerisation

Other Names / Synonyms: Macromolecule, polymer chain, synthetic polymer, biopolymer (biological context)

Properties & Characteristics

A polymer is a large molecule (macromolecule) composed of many repeating structural units (monomers) connected by covalent bonds. The degree of polymerisation (DP) indicates the number of monomer units. Polymers are characterised by: molar mass (Mn, Mw), dispersity index (PDI = Mw/Mn), glass transition temperature (Tg), and melting point (for crystalline polymers). Addition polymers (chain-growth): polyethylene, polystyrene. Condensation polymers (step-growth): nylon, polyester, polycarbonate.

Uses & Applications

Polymers are the most widely used class of materials: structural plastics (polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC), engineering plastics (Nylon, polycarbonate, PEEK), elastomers (natural and synthetic rubber), fibres (nylon, polyester, acrylic), coatings, adhesives, and biomedical materials (sutures, implants, drug delivery systems). Biopolymers (proteins, DNA, starch, cellulose) are the structural and functional molecules of life.

Safety Information

Polymer combustion produces toxic gases (HCN from nitrogen-containing polymers, HCl from PVC, CO and soot from all organics). Polymer additives (plasticisers, flame retardants, stabilisers) may be toxic or persistent environmental contaminants. Nanocomposite polymers with nano-particle fillers require nano-specific risk assessment.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Polymer
Formula (A-B)_n: repeat unit linked by covalent bonds; DP = degree of polymerisation
Index All "P" terms
Synonyms Macromolecule, polymer chain, synthetic polymer, biopolymer (biological context)

Frequently Asked Questions

A large macromolecule composed of many repeating structural units (monomers) linked by covalent bonds. Natural polymers include proteins, DNA, and cellulose. Synthetic polymers include polyethylene, nylon, and PVC. Properties depend on monomer type, chain length, and arrangement.

More "P" Terms

P-type Semiconductor Pairing Pairing Energy Palladium Pd Parachor [P] = M(γ)^(1/4) / (ρ_L - ρ_V) Paramagnetic χ_m > 0; unpaired electrons; μ = √(n(n+2)) BM (n = unpaired electrons) Paramagnetism Partial Ionic Character % ionic = (1 - e^(-Δχ²/4)) × 100% Partial Pressure Partial Pressure p_i = x_i × P_total; P_total = Σp_i Particulate Matter Parts Per Million ppm = mg/L (water) or mg/kg; = (mass solute/mass solution) × 10⁶
View all "P" terms →
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

AllChemicals.info — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/658-polymer

For educational purposes only. Verify all information before use.