Polymer Chemistry

• Describe the most important processes in a radical polymerization (initiation, propagation, chain transfer, and termination)
• Perform kinetic calculations for radical polymerization both homo- and copolymerization
• Give an account of the differences between conventional radical polymerization and the controlled radical polymerization techniques, ATRP, NMP and RAFT polymerization
• Interpret amorphous and semi-crystalline polymers’ thermal transitions, glass transition and crystalline melting point, and relate these to the polymers’ structure and properties
• Distinguish between and be able to calculate different molecular weight distributions and their influence on polymerization kinetics, mechanism and properties of the polymers
• Identify necessary monomers and suitable, imperative polymerization techniques to produce selected polymers and to account for bio-based polymers
• Describe and discuss condensation and ring-opening polymerizations of polyesters, polamides, polurethanes, silicones and polyethers.
• Estimate the assumptions and possibilities for application of anionic, cationic, Ziegler-Natta, metallocene, and metathesis polymerization
• Discuss and evaluate approaches to crosslinking systems and discuss how such resins are used to prepare network polymers including their various applications.
• Predict the possibilities for preparation of functional polymers by reactions onto existing polymers including application of CuAAC and thiol-ene chemistry.
• Account for bio-based materials and discuss/perspectivate on the impact of introduction of these new types of materials, their application and potential recycling both from a resource as well as a sustainability point of view.

Polymer reactions, including free radical (incl. controlled) and ion-initiated chain reactions as well as step-growth reactions, are thoroughly treated. Special emphasis will be given to understanding reaction parameters important in controlling the rate of polymerization, molecular weight distributions, and structural composition like branching, cross-links, and stereo-chemical aspects. The reaction mechanisms associated with the different polymerization reactions will be treated in detail.
In addition to this, also new types of bio-based materials will be discussed in terms of raw materials and substitution implications (recycling potential and sustainability).

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Lectures, problem solving, group work and visit to a company.