Polymers: Structure and Properties

This lecture covers the classification of polymers into thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, discussing their molecular structures and properties. It delves into the concepts of polymerization, molecular weight, stereoisomerism, and crystalline structures. The lecture also explores the mechanical behavior of polymers under stress, deformation, and temperature variations, emphasizing the differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Additionally, it explains the viscoelastic properties of polymers, including creep and relaxation tests, and the linear viscoelasticity model. The discussion extends to the influence of temperature on polymer behavior, activation energy, and the master curve concept for predicting material responses at different temperatures.