Classification of polymers; on the basis of monomers;source; structure; synthesis.

Classification of Polymers

Polymers are classified into different types on the basis of monomers, source of availability, structure,mode of synthesis.

On the basis of monomers

On the basis of the monomers polymers are classified into two types namely

Homopolymer

Homopolymer consist of only one type of monomers.

For example

Polyethylene consist of monomer ethene only.

   

Similarly

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) contains monomer

 CH₂=CH

          |

          Cl

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) contains monomer

CH₂=CH

          |

          CN

Copolymer (or mixed) polymer

Copolymer contains two or more different monomers.

For example

Classification based on source of availability

Polymers are divided into three types on the basis of source of availability.

Natural polymers

The Polymers obtained from nature ( i.e plants and animals) are called natural polymers.

For example; cellulose, starch, proteins, nucleic acids.

Synthetic Polymers

The Polymers prepared in laboratory are called synthetic Polymers. These Polymers are also called man made Polymers.

For example: Polythene, Nylon,Teflon, PVC .

Semi- Synthetic Polymers

These are natural polymers with some modifications.

For example; Cellulose diacetate, Vulcanised rubber.

Classification of Polymers on the basis of Structure

Polymers are classified into three types on the basis of Structure.

Linear Polymers

In these polymers the monomer units are joined to form a long and linear chain.

For example;High density polythene,PVC, Nylon, Polyester.

Branched chain Polymers

In these polymers the monomer units are joined to form long chain with branches of different length.

For example;Low density polythene, glycogen, starch.

Cross-linked polymers

In these polymers the monomer units are cross-linked to form a three dimensional network.

For example; Bakelite, melamine formaldehyde resin.

Classification of polymers on the basis of synthesis

Polymers are classified into two types on the basis of mode of synthesis.

Addition Polymers

Polymers obtained during addition reaction are called addition Polymers.

For example; Polythene

Condensation Polymers

Polymers obtained during condensation reaction are called condensation Polymers.
For example; Nylon, Terylene.

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