How Is A Synthetic Polymer Created?

A synthetic polymer is a man-made material created from chemical compounds. Synthetic polymers are extremely malleable, durable, and non-toxic, making them excellent materials for a wide-range of purposes. Read on for a closer look at how synthetic polymers are created.

What exactly is a synthetic polymer?

Let's start by breaking down exactly what a synthetic polymer is. Synthetic polymers are created from raw compounds such as petroleum based chemicals or petrochemicals. These compounds are put through a chemical process known as polymerization, in which differing chemical compounds and bonded together to create a variety of different synthetic fibers. 

How is a synthetic polymer produced?

Synthetic polymers are produced by chemical reactions known as "polymerizations". The polymerization process uses an assortment of processing such as heat, pressure and chemical bonding to hold "monomers" (individual molecules) together. The monomers are bonded in a linear fashion, creating chains of monomers, which are then termed as polymers. These polymers can then be bonded in order to create a variety of materials. A typical example to look at is the creation of the common plastic bag. Plastic bags are created from plastic polyethylene, which is created from an ethylene monomer. The ethylene monomer is composed of two carbon atoms, which are both bonded to two hydrogen atoms. The polyethylene material is then created from a chain of these two hydrogen atoms.

What are the advantages of a synthetic polymer?

Synthetic polymer fibers have a variety of advantages. They are cheap to produce. They are heat-sensitive and flame resist. They are non-toxic. They are easy to wash and maintain. They are resistant to most chemicals. They are resistant to rot, fungi and insects. They are very malleable and they are extremely durable.

What are the disadvantages of a synthetic polymer?

The main disadvantage of synthetic polymers is the negative impact they have on the environment. The process of creating synthetic polymer materials involves using toxic elements which produce gases that have a negative effect upon the environment. They are also usually non-biodegradable, so when disposed of, often end up in landfill sites. Synthetic polymers take years to break down. For example, scientists have estimated that it could take as much as 500 years for a polythene bag to fully break down. Polythene bags are made from extremely thin synthetic polymer material, so one can imagine that it would take an incredible amount of time for a thicker synthetic polymer item to break down.  On a lighter note however, most people today are aware of the negative impact synthetic polymer materials have on the environment, and actively recycle synthetic polymer waste.
What are some common synthetic polymer materials?

Common synthetic polymer materials come in four main material categories: thermosets, thermoplastics, elastomers and synthetic fibers. These materials are used for a vast array of different items and purposes. Some common everyday items include plastic bottles, toys, insulation covers, flexible pipes, non-stick pans, vinyl flooring, and man-made fabrics. They also are commonly used for auto parts, industrial fibers, food containers, and dishware.

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