Polymer Chemistry

1. Types of Polymers
   1. Natural Polymers
      1. Polysaccharides
         1. Starch
            1. Structure and chemical composition
            2. Uses in food and industrial applications
         2. Cellulose
            1. Structure and role in plant cell walls
            2. Applications in textiles and paper
         3. Glycogen
            1. Biological role in energy storage
            2. Differences from starch and cellulose
      2. Proteins
         1. Amino Acid Composition
            1. Polypeptide chains
            2. Primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures
         2. Enzymes
            1. Function and mechanism of action
            2. Industrial and medical applications
         3. Structural Proteins
            1. Collagen and its uses
            2. Keratin in hair and nails
      3. Nucleic Acids
         1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
            1. Double helix structure
            2. Role in genetic information
         2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)
            1. Types: mRNA, tRNA, rRNA
            2. Function in protein synthesis
   2. Synthetic Polymers
      1. Plastics
         1. Polyethylene
            1. High-density vs. low-density polyethylene
            2. Common uses in packaging
         2. Polypropylene
            1. Properties and resilience
            2. Applications in automotive and textiles
         3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
            1. Chemical stability and rigidity
            2. Uses in construction and plumbing
         4. Polystyrene
            1. Foam products and consumer goods
            2. Environmental impact and recycling challenges
      2. Elastomers
         1. Natural Rubber
            1. Harvesting and vulcanization process
            2. Applications in tires and footwear
         2. Synthetic Rubber
            1. Types: Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), Neoprene
            2. Comparative properties and applications
      3. Fibers
         1. Nylon
            1. Polyamide structure
            2. Strength and use in garments
         2. Polyester
            1. Ester functional group
            2. Applications in clothing and packaging
         3. Acrylic
            1. Properties and stability
            2. Uses in textiles and household items
      4. Thermoplastics
         1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
            1. Recyclability and uses in containers
         2. Polycarbonate
            1. Toughness and transparency
            2. Applications in eyewear and optical disks
      5. Thermosetting Plastics
         1. Epoxy Resins
            1. Cross-linking and strength
            2. Applications in coatings and adhesives
         2. Phenolic Resins
            1. High temperature resistance
            2. Uses in electrical and automotive industries