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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.