Polymer Technology

• Compute number- and mass average molar masses from given distributions (Poisson, Flory, …)
• Describe the statistics of polymer configurations.
• Describe the connection between chemical structure and crystallinity
• Use the Flory-Huggins model for the thermodynamics of polymer solutions
• Describe critical conditions for formation of networks (percolation, Bethe lattice)
• Predict the shear modulus for polymer networks from the crosslink density and functionality
• Explain experimental methods for determination of thermal properties (glass transition …)
• Model the mechanical behavior of polymer networks in large strain
• Use viscoelastic models to compute the complex moduli (G’ and G”)
• Compute the viscosity of polymer melts as function of molar mass and temperature

Classification, structure and molar mass distribution of polymers. Statistical mechanics of polymer conformations. Thermodynamics of polymer solutions and mixtures, phase equilibria (Flory Huggins theory). Measurements of molar mass. Solid state properties, glass transition, crystallinity. Viscoelasticity, time-temperature superposition. Rubbers and gels. Polymer degradation, additives blends, nanocomposites.

26400/26222

Lectures and demonstrations. Problem solving exercises in groups.

Fried, Joel R.: Polymer Science and Technology (3rd Edition) 3rd Edition