Organic Chemistry - Polymers from Udemy

SUMMARY

Polymers are defined as high molecular mass macromolecules, which consist of repeating structural units derived from the corresponding monomers. These polymers may be of natural or synthetic origin and are classified in a number of ways.

In the presence of an organic peroxide initiator, the alkenes and their derivatives undergo addition polymerisation or chain growth polymerisation through a free radical mechanism. Polythene, teflon, orlon, etc. are formed by addition polymerisation of an appropriate alkene or its derivative. Condensation polymerisation reactions are shown by the interaction of bi – or poly functional monomers containing – NH2 , – OH and – COOH groups. This type of polymerisation proceeds through the elimination of certain simple molecules as Formaldehyde reacts with phenol and melamine to form the corresponding condensation polymer products. The condensation polymerisation progresses through step by step and is also called as step growth polymerisation. Nylon, bakelite and dacron are some of the important examples of condensation polymers. However, a mixture of two unsaturated monomers exhibits copolymerisation and forms a co-polymer containing multiple units of each monomer. Natural rubber is a cis 1, 4-polyisoprene and can be made more tough by the processof vulcanisation with sulphur. Synthetic rubbers are usually obtained by copolymerisation of alkene and 1, 3 butadiene derivatives.

In view of the potential environmental hazards of synthetic polymeric wastes, certain biodegradable polymers such as PHBV and Nylon-2- Nylon-6 are developed as alternatives.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Explain the terms - monomer, polymer and polymerisation and appreciate their importance
Distinguish between various classes of polymers and different types of polymerisation processes
Appreciate the formation of polymers from mono- and bifunctional monomer molecules

Describe the preparation of some important synthetic polymers and their properties
Appreciate the importance of polymers in daily life

Explain the terms - monomer, polymer and polymerisation and appreciate their importance
Distinguish between various classes of polymers and different types of polymerisation processes
Appreciate the formation of polymers from mono- and bifunctional monomer molecules
Describe the preparation of some important synthetic polymers and their properties
Appreciate the importance of polymers in daily life

Syllabus

POLYMERS

Introduction

Various Terms Related to Polymers Part - 1

Various Terms Related to Polymers Part - 2

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores addition and condensation polymerization, which are fundamental concepts for understanding the synthesis and properties of various polymers

Covers the classification of polymers based on source, structure, mode of polymerization, and molecular forces, providing a comprehensive overview

Discusses the preparation and properties of important synthetic polymers like PVC, polyethylene, nylon, bakelite, and dacron, which are widely used in various industries

Examines the mechanisms of anionic and cationic addition polymerization, offering insights into the reaction pathways and factors influencing polymer formation

Includes a discussion of vulcanization, which is a process that enhances the properties of natural rubber and is essential for many applications

Introduces biodegradable polymers like PHBV and Nylon-2-Nylon-6, which are relevant for addressing environmental concerns related to plastic waste

Reviews summary

Fundamentals of organic polymers

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in polymer chemistry, suitable for those new to the topic or looking to refresh their understanding. Many students found the explanations for key concepts like polymerization types and polymer classification to be clear and easy to follow. However, some reviewers noted that the course moves at a fast pace and may require supplementary materials, particularly for more complex topics or if you lack a prior background in organic chemistry. While it covers a broad range of polymer types, some felt the depth could be increased in certain areas. Overall, students found it a helpful introduction, but perhaps less suited for advanced study without additional resources.

Opinions vary on the instructor's teaching style.

"The instructor was engaging and made the subject interesting."

"I found the instructor's delivery a bit dry, but the content was solid."

"Could have used more enthusiasm in the lectures to keep me motivated."

Best suited for those new to the subject area.

"As someone with limited prior knowledge of polymers, I found this course to be very accessible."

"It's a perfect course for someone just starting out in organic chemistry or materials science."

"I felt it was targeted well towards an introductory level audience."

"Great for a first exposure to polymers in organic chemistry."

The course covers a wide range of polymer topics.

"I appreciate how many different types of polymers were covered, from polythene to nylon and rubber."

"The syllabus promised broad coverage, and it delivered on introducing many aspects of polymer science."

"Learned about several synthetic rubbers I wasn't familiar with before."

"It touches upon a good variety of subjects within polymers, including biodegradability."

Reviewers praised the clarity of core concepts.

"The explanations on addition and condensation polymerization were incredibly clear."

"I finally understood the different types of polymers thanks to the straightforward lectures."

"The basic concepts are laid out really well, making it easy to grasp the fundamentals."

"The instructor made complex ideas approachable, especially the classification systems."

Additional resources may be needed for depth.

"Found myself needing to look up additional information to fully understand some of the more detailed mechanisms."

"This course is a great starting point, but I would definitely recommend using a textbook alongside it."

"If you're aiming for deep understanding, be prepared to find other resources to supplement the lectures."

Some students found the lectures moved quickly.

"Sometimes it felt like we were rushing through the topics, especially the mechanisms."

"Needed to pause and rewatch segments frequently because the pace was quite fast for me."

"The amount of information covered in each module felt dense, requiring extra review time."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Organic Chemistry - Polymers with these activities:

Review Basic Organic Chemistry Concepts

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Reinforce your understanding of fundamental organic chemistry principles, which are essential for grasping the complexities of polymer chemistry.

Browse courses on Functional Groups

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Review notes and textbooks from introductory organic chemistry courses.
Complete practice problems focusing on reaction mechanisms and functional group transformations.
Familiarize yourself with IUPAC nomenclature rules for organic compounds.

Read 'Polymer Chemistry' by George Odian

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Supplement the course material with a comprehensive textbook on polymer chemistry to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

View Principles Of Polymerization - Third Edition on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Principles of Polymerization' by George Odian.
Read the chapters relevant to the course syllabus, focusing on polymerization mechanisms and kinetics.
Work through the example problems and exercises provided in the book.

Create a Visual Guide to Polymer Classification

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Solidify your understanding of polymer classification by creating a visual aid that summarizes the different categories and their characteristics.

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Review the different classifications of polymers based on source, structure, mode of polymerization, monomer, molecular forces, and biodegradability.
Create a flowchart, mind map, or infographic that visually represents the different categories and their relationships.
Include examples of polymers for each category.

Three other activities

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Research and Present on a Specific Polymer

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Deepen your understanding of polymer properties and applications by conducting in-depth research on a specific polymer.

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Choose a polymer of interest, such as polyethylene, nylon, or a biodegradable polymer.
Research its synthesis, properties, applications, and environmental impact.
Prepare a presentation summarizing your findings, including relevant chemical structures and diagrams.
Present your research to classmates or colleagues.

Read 'Polymer Physics' by Michael Rubinstein and Ralph H. Colby

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Explore the physical properties of polymers in greater detail to understand their behavior in different applications.

View Polymer Physics on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Polymer Physics' by Rubinstein and Colby.
Focus on chapters related to chain conformation, dynamics, and rheology.
Relate the concepts learned to the properties of specific polymers discussed in the course.

Design a Biodegradable Polymer Packaging Solution

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Apply your knowledge of biodegradable polymers to design a sustainable packaging solution for a specific product.

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Choose a product that currently uses non-biodegradable packaging.
Research biodegradable polymers suitable for packaging applications, such as PHBV or PLA.
Design a packaging solution using the chosen biodegradable polymer, considering factors such as cost, durability, and environmental impact.
Create a presentation or report outlining your design and its benefits.

Career center

Learners who complete Organic Chemistry - Polymers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Polymer Chemist

A polymer chemist specializes in the synthesis, characterization, and application of polymers. This course in Organic Chemistry - Polymers helps build a foundation in understanding the fundamental principles of polymer science, including different types of polymerization processes such as addition and condensation polymerization. A prospective polymer chemist should take this course to appreciate the formation of polymers from mono- and bifunctional monomer molecules, and to describe the preparation of some important synthetic polymers and their properties. This course may prove especially useful through its discussions of polyvinyl chloride, polyesters, and polyamides.

See salaries and explore the career path for Polymer Chemist

Materials Scientist

Materials scientists research and develop new materials with specific properties for various applications. The course in Organic Chemistry - Polymers helps build a foundation for understanding the structure, properties, and applications of polymers, which are essential components of many advanced materials. This course may be helpful because it introduces the different classifications of polymers and the terms associated with the topic. A future materials scientist should take this course to gain familiarity with synthetic rubbers and biodegradable polymers.

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Plastics Engineer

Plastics engineers specialize in the design, development, and manufacturing of plastic products. This Organic Chemistry - Polymers course may be helpful for understanding the properties and processing of different types of polymers used in plastics manufacturing. This course provides a classification based on biodegradability. A plastics engineer can learn to appreciate the importance of polymers.

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Chemical Engineer

Chemical engineers design and develop chemical processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing. This Organic Chemistry - Polymers course may be useful by providing an understanding of polymerization processes and the properties of different polymers, which are crucial in chemical engineering applications. This course could be especially helpful through its discussions of addition polymerization, condensation polymerization, and copolymerization. As a chemical engineer, you'll be well versed in terms related to polymers.

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Research Scientist

Research scientists conduct experiments and analyze data to advance scientific knowledge in various fields. Organic Chemistry - Polymers provides a solid foundation in the principles of polymer science, including synthesis, characterization, and applications. The study of copolymerization and vulcanization, both covered in this course, may be especially useful for a research scientist. Furthermore, research scientists can learn to distinguish between various classes of polymers and different types of polymerisation processes.

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Coatings Chemist

Coatings chemists develop and formulate coatings for various surfaces. The course on Organic Chemistry - Polymers helps build a foundation for understanding the properties of polymers used in coatings, such as their adhesion, durability, and resistance to degradation. A prospective coating chemist may find this course helpful due to its discussion on molecular mass of polymers. This course is sure to assist in designing novel materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Coatings Chemist

Formulation Scientist

Formulation scientists develop and optimize the composition of products, often involving polymers, to achieve desired properties. This Organic Chemistry - Polymers course may be useful for understanding how different polymers interact and how their properties can be modified through various processes. This course may be especially useful due to its treatment of plasticizers and molecular mass of polymers. A formulation scientist will be able to apply the importance of polymers in daily life.

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Product Development Scientist

Product development scientists are responsible for designing and creating new products or improving existing ones. This course in Organic Chemistry - Polymers may be helpful by providing an understanding of the properties and applications of different polymers. This course goes over the preparation of synthetic polymers and their properties. In particular, a product development scientist may find value from sections that discuss the topic of rubber.

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Adhesives Chemist

Adhesives chemists develop and formulate adhesives for various applications. This Organic Chemistry - Polymers may be useful by providing an overview of the properties of polymers used in adhesives, such as their tack, bond strength, and flexibility. This course goes over different classifications of polymers. An adhesives chemist can learn to appreciate the importance of polymers in daily life.

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Textile Chemist

Textile chemists work with dyes, finishes, and polymers to improve the properties of textiles. The Organic Chemistry - Polymers course may be helpful by providing an understanding of the properties of polymers used in fibers and fabrics, such as their strength, elasticity, and resistance to wear. This course can assist with learning about synthetic rubbers. A textile chemist may learn to distinguish between various classes of polymers and different types of polymerisation processes.

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Quality Control Chemist

Quality control chemists analyze and test raw materials and finished products to ensure they meet quality standards. Organic Chemistry - Polymers may be helpful by providing knowledge of the properties and characteristics of polymers, allowing for informed assessment of materials. This course may be especially helpful through its discussions of molecular mass of polymers. The terms monomer and polymer and polymerisation are explained.

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Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that products comply with relevant regulations and guidelines. This Organic Chemistry - Polymers may be helpful by improving an understanding of the chemical composition and properties of polymers, which is important for regulatory compliance. This course may be helpful in part because it distinguishes between various classes of polymers. A specialist understands the importance of polymers in daily life.

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Science Teacher

A science teacher educates students on scientific concepts and principles. The Organic Chemistry - Polymers course helps solidify your understanding of polymer chemistry, allowing you to explain the concepts more clearly and effectively to your students. The course will allow a prospective teacher to explain the terms monomer, polymer and polymerisation and appreciate their importance. This course may prove especially useful through its discussions of polyvinyl chloride, polyesters, and polyamides.

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Science Writer

Science writers communicate complex scientific information to the public through various media. This course in Organic Chemistry - Polymers may be useful by providing a solid understanding of polymer science, enabling you to write accurate and engaging articles or content on related topics. This course may be especially useful due to its treatment of plasticizers and molecular mass of polymers. A science writer will be able to effectively communicate the importance of polymers in daily life.

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Technical Sales Representative

Technical sales representatives sell scientific and technical products or services to businesses and organizations. This course in Organic Chemistry - Polymers assists in developing a deeper understanding of polymers, enabling you to communicate the features and benefits of polymer-based products more effectively to potential customers. A technical sales representative can learn to appreciate the importance of polymers in daily life. This course may be especially useful due to its treatment of plasticizers and molecular mass of polymers.

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Organic Chemistry - Polymers

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Fundamentals of organic polymers

Activities

Career center

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