Question

How are polymers classified into different categories on the basis of intermolecular forces? Give an example of a polymer of each of these categories.

Answer 1

1. Elastomers: The polymers in which the polymeric chains are held together by the weakest intermolecular forces are termed elastomers.
   Example: Buna-S, Vulcanized rubber
2. Fibres: The polymers consisting of strong intermolecular forces between the polymeric chains are called fibres.
   Example: Polyesters, Nylon-66, polyacrylonitriles
3. Thermoplastic polymers: The polymers in which the intermolecular forces of attraction are intermediate to those of elastomers and fibres are called thermoplastics.
   Example: Polythene, Polystyrene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Teflon
4. Thermosetting polymers: The workability of thermoplastics at relatively lower temperatures can be increased by the addition of certain organic compounds called plasticizers.
   Example: Phenol-formaldehyde (bakelite) resins, melamine-formaldehyde resins, urea-formaldehyde resins, etc.