The study of
molecules have brought about different innovations in manufacturing, enabling
scientists, cooks and even the regular Joe to enjoy different products like lab
tools, non-stick cookware and plastic cups. Through the use of large mass
production equipment, fabricating these items have been made easier. So, how
does the study of molecules fit in this picture?
Mass produced items
like bottles, credit cards and even clothes are made of different materials
collectively known as polymers. Polymers are large molecules made from smaller
units known as monomers. These monomers could act as single molecules, but when
bonded together form one larger molecule through a process called
polymerization.
There are different
kinds of monomers like glucose, amino acids and isoprene. In organisms, these
monomers could turn into polymers. Glucose, for example, when bonded with other
monomers, could form cellular walls, and amino acids form proteins. Isoprene is
found in rubber plants. When synthetically polymerized, monomers could form
different kinds of polymers like plastics, nylon and Teflon®.
The arrangement of
these monomers could also produce different results. Teflon® for example, is
the patented name for Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is actually an
accidental result from working with the same monomers in perfluorethylene, which
is usually used as coolants.
Polymer is a durable
material that is used for many industrial applications such as
construction, plumbing and even the automotive industry. Its wide
array of uses is thanks to the fact that it's extremely water
resistant and fade-proof.
Resin
Durable polymer begins from
a humble resin; a clear, liquid product made of plastic. To make the
hardened polymer, the liquid plastic resin is infused with a liquid
catalyst. When these are mixed in the appropriate amount, the
catalyst activates the resin and begins the hardening process.
Curing
Curing refers to the
chemical process that occurs as the resin shifts from liquid to solid
state. Depending on the materials that make up the polymer, the resin
can cure from 48 to 72 hours. In this process, bubbles usually form,
but they can be removed from the final product through the
application of heat.
Polymer
Once the resin has
completely cured, water and a clean, damp cloth can be used to clean
it up. Minor scratches can be rubbed off while the polymer is still
hot. After cleaning, the finished product is now ready to be used as
polymer seals.
Polymer-based
products include credit cards, cookware, liquid absorbing
crystals, take-out containers, and PET bottles.
