Science Common Sense

1775 - What are the structures and preparation methods of common polymers.

Let's talk about some common polymers and how they're made:

1. Plastic bags - Polyethylene: Made from a long chain of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It's created when ethylene gas is mixed with a special liquid and then heated under pressure.

Structure: Long chain of single-bonded carbon atoms

Preparation method: Melting and then blowing air through the molten material to make it thin and flexible.

1. Nylon clothing - Polyamide: Made from a chain of nitrogen and carbon atoms. It's created when a liquid containing nitrogen is mixed with a liquid containing carbon, and then heated.

Structure: Chain of atoms with nitrogen and carbon bonded in a specific order

Preparation method: Spinning molten polyamide into fibers that can be woven into fabric.

1. PVC pipes - Polyvinyl Chloride: Made from a chain of carbon and chlorine atoms. It's created when vinyl chloride gas is mixed with other chemicals and then heated under pressure.

Structure: Long chain of bonded carbon and chlorine atoms

Preparation method: Mixing the raw materials with other chemicals, then heating and molding the mixture into pipes or other shapes.

1. Polystyrene foam cups - Styrofoam: Made from a chain of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It's created when styrene gas is mixed with other chemicals and then heated under pressure.

Structure: Long chain of single-bonded carbon atoms

Preparation method: Melting and then blowing air through the molten material to make it light and foamy.

1. Rubber bands - Polyisoprene (Natural Rubber): Made from a chain of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It's created when natural latex sap is collected and then treated with other chemicals.

Structure: Long chain of double-bonded carbon atoms

Preparation method: Collecting latex sap, adding chemicals to create a chain reaction, and then molding the mixture into various shapes.