Polymeric Material Structure — Lesson 3

Polymers are an extremely versatile material family — we use them for things like plastic grocery bags and children's toys. But they are also used for surgical screws and elements in hip and knee replacements. They are the matrix for advanced carbon fiber composites and the glue used in school projects.

But how do we get materials used in such different applications from one material family? A polymer's structure has a lot to do with its properties and performance.

In this lesson, we will identify the basic components of a polymeric chain as well as show some examples of different polymers and bulk polymer chain configurations. Use the guided student note sheet to follow along with the video.

Alternate video link.

References:
Callister, W. D., & Rethwisch, D. G. (2018). Materials science and engineering : an introduction (10th ed.). Wiley.