Material Research: Polymers

Polymers are used in a range of materials; chemically speaking, they are compounds with molecules bonded together in long, repeating chains. They are often man-made, using petroleum derived, non-renewable resources. Common petrobased polymers include:

• Polypropylene (PP): Carpet, upholstery
• ​Polyethylene low density (LDPE): Grocery bags
• ​Polyethylene high density (HDPE): Detergent bottles, toys
• ​Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC): Piping, decking
• ​Polystyrene (PS): Toys, foam
• ​Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon): Nonstick pans, electrical insulation
• ​Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA, Lucite, Plexiglas): Face shields, skylights
• Poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc): Paints, adhesives
• Polychloroprene (Neoprene): Wet suits
  

13 Bioplastic Innovations That Might Save the Environment - Bioplastic could be the solution to the growing accumulation of hydrocarbon-derived plastics. 

Basic Polymer Structure - From Penn State, this source covers the four basic polymer structures and links to information on how different polymers are used.

Bio-based polymers can be direct or "drop in" replacements for petroleum-derived polymers and offer near-identical properties, or they can offer entirely novel characteristics. Some polymers that may include biologic feedstock are TPU, PE, and PLA.

Common uses include:

• Packaging
• Cutlery
• Toys (LEGO)
• Shoes
• Textiles
• Medical devices