Classification of Polymers

Classification of Polymers

1. Natural Polymers

   • They occur naturally and are found in plants and animals. To add up, we also have biodegradable polymers which are called biopolymers.
     • Proteins
     • Starch
     • Cellulose
     • Rubber

2. Semi-synthetic Polymers

   • They are derived from naturally occurring polymers and undergo further chemical modification.
     • Cellulose nitrate
     • Cellulose acetate

3. Synthetic Polymers

   • These are man-made polymers. Plastic is the most common and widely used synthetic polymer. It is used in industries and various dairy products.
     • nylon-6
     • 6
     • polyether’s

4. Classification of Polymers based on the Structure of the Monomer Chain

   • Linear Polymers
     • The structure of polymers containing long and straight chains fall into this category.
       • poly-vinyl chloride
   • Branched-chain Polymers
     • When linear chains of a polymer form branches, then, such polymers are categorized as branched chain polymers.
       • Low-density polythene.
   • Cross-linked Polymers
     • They are composed of bifunctional and trifunctional monomers. They have a stronger covalent bond in comparison to other linear polymers.
       • Bakelite
       • Melamine

5. Other Ways to Classify Polymers

   • Classification Based on Polymerization
     • Addition Polymerization
       • poly ethane
       • Teflon
       • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
   • Classification Based on Monomers
     • Homomer
       • In this type, a single type of monomer unit is present.
         • Polyethene
     • Heteropolymer or co-polymer
       • It consists of different type of monomer units.
         • nylon -6
         • 6
   • Classification Based on Molecular Forces
     • Elastomers
       • These are rubber-like solids weak interaction forces are present.
         • Rubber
     • Fibres
       • Strong, tough, high tensile strength and strong forces of interaction are present.
         • nylon -6
         • 6
     • Thermoplastics
       • These have intermediate forces of attraction.
         • polyvinyl chloride.
     • Thermosetting polymers
       • These polymers greatly improve the material’s mechanical properties. It provides enhanced chemical and heat resistance.
         • phenolics
         • epoxies
         • silicones

6. Types of Polymers

   • Organic Polymers
     • Carbon backbone
   • Inorganic Polymers
     • Backbone constituted by elements other than carbon.

7. Biodegradable Polymers

   • The polymers which are degraded and decayed by microorganisms like bacteria. These types of polymers are used in surgical bandages, capsule coatings and in surgery.
     • Poly hydroxybutyrate co vel [PHBV]

8. High-Temperature Polymers

   • These polymers are stable at high temperatures. Due to their high molecular weight, these are not destroyed even at very high temperatures.
   • They are extensively used in the healthcare industries, for making sterilization equipment and in the manufacturing of heat and shock-resistant objects.
   • Few of the important polymers are
     • Polypropylene
     • Polyethene

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