Inorganic polymers

Inorganic polymers

Inorganic polymers are the polymers which do not contain any carbon atom in their backbones. The monomers in inorganic polymer are linked via covalent bonds. The polymer containing organic and inorganic constituents are called hybrid polymers and most 'so called' inorganic polymers are hybrid polymers. Polyphosphates, Polyphosphazines and silicones are example of inorganic polymers.

Similarities between organic and inorganic polymers.

1) The monomers in both organic and inorganic polymers are linked via covalent bond.

2) Both organic and inorganic polymers are macromolecules with high molecular masses.

Difference between organic and inorganic polymers.

1) Organic polymers contain carbon atoms in their backbone while inorganic polymers do not contain any carbon atoms in their backbones. This is the main difference between organic and inorganic polymers.

2) Organic polymers have simple structure while inorganic polymers have highly branched complex structure.

3) Organic polymers are eco-friendly because they are biodegradable while inorganic polymers are not eco-friendly because they are non biodegradable.

Examples of Inorganic polymer

Silicones

Silicones are polymeric organic silicon compounds containing O-Si-O and carbon-silicon (Si-C) bonds. These compounds are highly stable due to presence of silicon- oxygen and carbon-silicon bond.

Silicones may be linear, Cyclic or crosslinked.

Inorganic polymer; silicones.

The linear and Cyclic silicones are prepared by reaction of water with organic chlorosilanes ( R₂SiCl₂) followed by elimination of water.
Silicones can be occured in the form of oil,grease, rubber like substances or resins. It can be used as lubricants, electrical insulators and hydraulic fluids.