Overview on Synthetic Polymers: Types, Examples and Polymer Uses

Synthetic Polymers Overview

Synthetic polymers have revolutionized numerous industries, serving as the backbone for countless everyday objects and materials. Humans created polymers known as synthetic polymers. Thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, and synthetic fibres make up the four groups. They can frequently be found in a variety of consumer goods. Different main chains and side chains are used to make synthetic organic polymers. Because they possess several very desirable qualities, including strength, flexibility, resistivity, chemical inertness, and others, synthetic polymers are widely employed in everyday life.

This article will provide a detailed exploration of synthetic polymers, shedding light on their composition, properties, and wide-ranging applications. From plastics to fibres, coatings to adhesives, synthetic polymers have become an essential part of our modern lives.

Synthetic Polymers Definition

Synthetic polymers are those which are human-made polymers. Polymers are those which consist of repeated structural units known as monomers. Polyethylene is considered to be one of the simplest polymers, it has ethene or ethylene as the monomer unit whereas the linear polymer is known as the high-density polyethylene-HDPE. Many polymeric materials have chain-like structures which resemble polyethene. Synthetic polymers are sometimes referred to as “plastics”, of which the well-known ones are nylon and polyethene. The polymers which are formed by linking monomer units, without any change of material, are known as addition polymers or also called chain-growth polymers. All these are said to be synthetic polymers.

Synthetic Polymers: Exploring Different Types and Examples

The world of synthetic polymers encompasses a wide range of materials. Let's take a closer look at a few notable examples of synthetic polymers that are commonly used in everyday life:

Nylon

Nylon, a type of synthetic polymer known as polyamide, was invented by Wallace Carothers at DuPont's research facility in 1935. It is widely utilized due to its unique hydrophilic properties resulting from its amide backbone. Unlike pure hydrocarbon polymers, nylon engages in hydrogen bonding with water, making it distinct from most plastics.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, holds the third position among the most produced plastics, following polypropylene and polyethene. It finds extensive use in construction, thanks to its affordability and strength, often replacing materials like copper and iron. PVC is also employed in clothing, electrical cable insulation, and various other applications as a substitute for rubber.

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

Low-density polyethene, a prevalent type of synthetic polymer, is commonly found in households. LDPE is a thermoplastic prepared from the monomer ethylene, making it versatile and widely used in numerous applications.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene, also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic synthetic polymer with diverse applications. It is employed in packaging, labelling, stationery, textiles, plastics, reusable containers, laboratory equipment, and more.

Other notable examples of synthetic polymers include thermoplastic polyurethane, Teflon, polystyrene, high-density polyethene, and neoprene.

These synthetic polymers play crucial roles in various industries and contribute to the development of numerous products we encounter in our daily lives.

The table below highlights different types of synthetic polymers and synthetic polymers examples:

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Uses of Synthetic Polymers

Synthetic polymers find diverse applications in our daily lives, ranging from plastic containers of various shapes and sizes to clothing, construction materials, and toys for children.

These polymers are favoured for their lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional containers. Additionally, they contribute to improved aeration in soil, enhancing water and mineral permeability while promoting plant growth and health.

1. Nylon, known for its exceptional strength, is utilized in the production of hill climbing equipment, fishing lines, parachutes, and raincoats.
2. Acrylic is commonly used in the manufacturing of sweaters, linings, tracksuits, gloves, and boot linings.
3. Terylene, a type of synthetic polymer, is employed by fabric companies to create tapestries and garments like sarees. It can also be blended with natural fibres to produce various types of clothing.
4. Plastic containers, renowned for their durability and lightweight properties, serve as ideal packaging options for cucumbers, dry food, water, milk, and numerous other products.

Categories of Synthetic Polymers

Synthetic polymers can be categorized into four distinct groups: thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, and synthetic fibres. Each group possesses unique characteristics and applications.

1. Thermosets: These materials have a high degree of crosslinking, making them insoluble and non-melting when heated. Due to their difficult recyclability, they are not environmentally recommended. They can be moulded when heated and solidified upon cooling. Thermosets are typically resins or synthetic plastics that harden permanently under heat and pressure.
2. Thermoplastics: Thermoplastics can melt upon heating and generally have minimal cross-linking. They are more easily recyclable compared to thermosets and can withstand heating and reforming processes. Linear polymers are common examples of thermoplastic materials. They can be moulded when heated and solidified upon cooling.
3. Elastomers: Elastomers exhibit elastic properties similar to natural rubber. They have light crosslinking and amorphous structures. Elastomers have a glass transition temperature below room temperature and behave as large, flexible molecules. The forces between polymer chains are relatively weak, and crosslinks prevent irreversible flow. Care should be taken when handling elastomers due to their deformability.
4. Synthetic Fibres: Synthetic fibres are widely used types of synthetic polymers. They include man-made textile fibres produced from natural materials like rayon, cellulose derivatives such as acetate, or regenerated protein fibres like zein. They can also be entirely synthetic fibres like nylon or acrylic fibres.

These distinct categories of synthetic polymers offer a wide range of applications and contribute to various industries and everyday products.

Synthetic Polymers Application

Synthetic polymers have numerous applications across various industries due to their versatility, durability, and customizable properties. Here are some common applications of synthetic polymers:

1. Packaging:Synthetic polymers such as polyethene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are widely used in packaging materials, including plastic bags, containers, bottles, and films. They offer excellent barrier properties, strength, and flexibility for preserving and protecting goods.
2. Textiles and Clothing:Synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are extensively used in the textile industry for manufacturing clothing, upholstery, carpets, and curtains. These fibres provide durability, wrinkle resistance, moisture-wicking capabilities, and vibrant colour options.
3. Construction:Synthetic polymers find applications in the construction sector for various purposes. PVC pipes and fittings are commonly used for plumbing systems due to their corrosion resistance. Thermoplastic materials like polyvinyl acetate (PVA) and polyurethane (PU) are utilized as adhesives, sealants, and coatings in building and infrastructure projects.
4. Automotive:Synthetic polymers play a crucial role in the automotive industry. They are used for manufacturing components such as bumpers, dashboards, seats, tires, and interior trims. Polyurethane foam is used for seat cushions and insulation, while polycarbonate is employed for windows and headlights.
5. Electronics:Synthetic polymers are vital in the electronics industry for insulation, encapsulation, and protection of electrical components. Materials like polyethene terephthalate (PET) and epoxy resins are used in circuit boards, connectors, cables, and electronic enclosures.
6. Medical and Healthcare:Synthetic polymers have significant applications in the medical field. Biocompatible polymers such as polyethene glycol (PEG) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) are used for drug delivery systems and implants. Materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polypropylene (PP) are used for medical tubing, syringes, and surgical instruments.
7. Consumer Products:Synthetic polymers are found in various consumer products such as household items, toys, electronics, and personal care products. Examples include polypropylene in food containers, polystyrene in disposable cutlery, and polyethene in cosmetic packaging.
8. Environmental Applications:Synthetic polymers are also used for environmental purposes. They are employed in water treatment systems, wastewater management, and soil stabilization. Additionally, biodegradable polymers and compostable plastics are being developed as more sustainable alternatives.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Synthetic Polymers

Synthetic polymers have become an integral part of our daily lives, offering numerous advantages, but they also come with certain drawbacks. Let's explore their advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of Synthetic Polymers

1. Versatility:Synthetic polymers exhibit remarkable versatility and find applications in various fields. They are used in superglue (methyl 2-cyanopropenoate), RTV silicone for gaskets, polyester in textiles, and nylon in stockings and ropes.
2. Desirable Properties:Synthetic polymers possess desirable properties such as strength, flexibility, electrical resistivity, and chemical inertness. These properties make them suitable for diverse applications.
3. Cost-Effectiveness:Synthetic polymers are often more affordable compared to natural alternatives, making them economically viable for large-scale production and everyday use.

Disadvantages of Synthetic Polymers

1. Environmental Impact:One major disadvantage of synthetic polymers is their environmental impact. The basic ingredients required for their production may become scarce, and their disposal poses challenges. Synthetic polymers, when not properly disposed of, can persist in the environment for a long time, causing pollution and harm to ecosystems.
2. Non-Biodegradability:Most synthetic polymers are non-biodegradable, meaning they do not naturally break down over time. This leads to the accumulation of plastic waste, contributing to issues such as marine pollution and landfills.
3. Chemical Stability:While chemical inertness is a desirable property, it also means that synthetic polymers resist chemical breakdown. This can result in their persistence in the environment, posing challenges for waste management and recycling.

It is important to recognize the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic polymers and work towards finding sustainable alternatives and better waste management strategies to mitigate their negative impacts on the environment.

Synthetic Polymers: Things to Remember

1. Synthetic polymers are composed of long macromolecules and organic linkages, derived from natural resources such as oil, gas, or coal.
2. Examples of synthetic polymers include Nylon, Polyvinyl Chloride, Low-Density Polyethylene, and Polypropylene.
3. Synthetic polymers possess a range of desirable properties such as strength, flexibility, resistivity, and chemical inertness. Chemical inertness, which refers to their resistance to chemical breakdown, is a particularly advantageous characteristic of many synthetic polymers.
4. Tissue engineering applications face challenges with synthetic polymers, including poor biocompatibility, the release of acidic breakdown products, difficulties in processability, and premature loss of mechanical qualities.