Polymers are everywhere! You’re likely wearing some or carrying some in your hand or on your back. In fact, you are made of polymers. But what is a polymer? And what is a –mer anyway? How do you make them, characterize them, and how do you process them? What dictates their properties, and therefore their functions? What is the difference between plastics #1-7? Why is Styrofoam so hard to recycle? Why are Kevlar and Gore-Tex so special? Why does caulk smell funny? Can you use a polymer to replace human tissue? We will chart a path toward understanding these questions and many more!

Analyzes the mechanisms and kinetics of various polymerization reactions; relations between the molecular structure and polymer properties, and how these properties can be influenced by the polymerization process; fundamental concepts of polymer solution and melt rheology. Applications to polymer processing operations, such as extrusion, molding, and fiber spinning. Three lecture hours. Prerequisite: CHE 3321 or instructor permission.