Polymer

A process of mixing two or more polymers before molding, creating a new polymer with properties between the originals.

A type of polymer created by combining two or more different monomers during polymerization. The monomers can be arranged randomly or in blocks.

A copolymer made from acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. The butadiene forms rubbery areas within the rigid polymer matrix.

A process of mixing two polymers that can freely combine and have similar chemical structures.

A substance added to polymers to lower their glass transition temperature and elastic modulus, making them more flexible.

The ability of a plasticizer to be compatible with the polymer, ensuring a permanent change in properties.

The process of creating highly reactive species, like free radicals, with an odd number of electrons. This is often achieved through the decomposition of specific compounds, such as peroxides.

The initial step in polymerization where a free radical reacts with a monomer, creating a larger molecule with an unpaired electron.

This stage describes the rapid growth of a polymer chain by adding monomers to a free radical. The chain keeps growing as long as more monomers are available.

The final step where polymer chain growth stops. This occurs when two growing chains meet or react with a free radical, effectively terminating the chain reaction.

A molecule that can readily form a new covalent bond with another molecule. In polymerization, free radicals are crucial because they can react with monomers to start and continue the chain growth.

A simple molecule that serves as the building block for a longer polymer chain. Monomers form long chains through polymerization.

A combination of materials where individual components retain their physical identity. The resulting material exhibits superior properties compared to its individual components.

The component in a composite material responsible for connecting and binding the filler. Analogous to the glue in a composite.

The component in a composite material that is dispersed within the matrix. It can be particles, fibers, or whiskers.

A composite where the filler is dispersed as particles within the matrix.

Thin crystals with a high length-to-diameter ratio, used as fillers in composites.

A composite where the filler is in the form of long, slender fibers. They significantly enhance the strength and stiffness of the composite.

The arrangement and distribution of fibers within the matrix of a composite. Examples include continuous fibers, short aligned fibers, or random distribution.

A composite structure where layers of fiber-reinforced resin are placed over each other in different directions. It enhances the strength of the composite in multiple directions.

Long-chain molecules made of repeating units. They are fundamental to living organisms and have various synthetic applications.

A substance used to create polymers. It is the building block for the polymer chain.

A type of polymerization where molecules react to form a larger molecule without eliminating smaller molecules. This occurs with vinyl compounds.

A type of polymer formed from a single type of monomer.

A type of polymer formed from multiple monomer types.

The arrangement of methyl groups in polypropylene. All methyl groups are on the same side.

The arrangement of methyl groups in polypropylene. Methyl groups alternate from side to side.

The arrangement of methyl groups in polypropylene. Methyl groups are randomly switched on each side.

Polymers that are not carbon-based but instead composed of inorganic compounds like silica ($SiO_2$).

A silicone polymer composed of silicon and oxygen atoms. It is an example of an inorganic polymer.

A process that starts the formation of polymer chains by creating free radicals, which are molecules with an unpaired electron.

Benzoyl peroxide decomposes into free radicals when exposed to light, heat, or certain chemical compounds.

A tertiary amine like n,n-dimethyl-p-toluidine can activate benzoyl peroxide, leading to polymerization.

The process of adding monomers to a growing polymer chain, creating longer chains.

The end of polymerization, where chain growth stops.

A chemical process where polymer chains are connected by bonds, creating a more rigid and stable material.

A material that can be shaped by heating and solidifies upon cooling, enabling repeated molding and reshaping.

A polymer that changes permanently into a rigid solid when heated, unable to be reshaped.

The temperature at which a polymer transitions from a rigid solid to a more flexible state, allowing it to be molded.

Materials that can stretch significantly under force, returning to their original shape after the force is removed. They are flexible, with high strain capacity and low elastic modulus.

Regions within a polymer where molecules are aligned in a more ordered, parallel manner, increasing its rigidity and strength.

A linear polymer formed by repeating units of ethylene, known for its flexibility and softness. It can be softened by heating, allowing for shaping.

A polyethylene with branched structures, making it more rigid and difficult to melt. It lacks a glass transition temperature and degrades before softening.

A polymer's ability to withstand stress and strain, determining its stiffness and resistance to deformation.

The degree to which a material can be stretched or deformed before it breaks or permanently changes shape.