Polymers

Abstract

The physical properties of polymers depend not only on the kind of material but also on the molar mass, the molar-mass distribution, the kind of branching, the degree of branching, the crystallinity (amorphous or crystalline), the tacticity, the end groups, any superstructure, and any other kind of molecular architecture. In the case of copolymers, the physical properties are additionally influenced by the type of arrangement of the monomers (statistical, random, alternating, periodic, block, or graft). Furthermore, the properties of polymers are influenced if they are mixed with other polymers (polymer blends), with fibers (glass fibers, carbon fibers, or metal fibers), or with other fillers (cellulose, inorganic materials, or organic materials). The tables and figures in this chapter include the physical and physicochemical properties of those polymers, copolymers, polymer blends and reinforced polymers which are widely used for scientific applications and in industry. The figures include mainly the following physical properties: stress versus strain, viscosity versus shear rate, and creep modulus versus time. However, other physical properties are also included. Additionally, the most relevant applications of the materials are given.