1 - Introduction to Plastics and Polymers

Abstract

This chapter is an introduction to polymer chemistry. It includes polymerization chemistry and the different types of polymers and how they differ from each other. Discussed are the subjects of copolymers, branching, crosslinking, steric hindrance, isomerism, crystallinity, and other factors that affect the molecular structures of the polymers used to make plastics. Since plastics are rarely “neat,” reinforcement, fillers, and additives are reviewed. The influence of molecular structure on properties is examined. A basic understanding of plastic and polymer chemistry will make the discussion of plastics easier to understand and it also provides a basis for the introductions of the plastic families in later chapters.