Synthetic Organic Polymers

The word polymer is defined as, "a compound of high molecular weight derived either by the addition of many smaller molecules, as polyethylene, or by the condensation of many smaller molecules with the elimination of water, alcohol, or the like, as nylon" ("Reference"). In laymen terms, a polymer is a chain of monomers. The prefix poly- means "many", and mono- means "one" ("What is a polymer"). Monomers string together to form linear chains through a process called polymerization. Polymerization can occur between several units of the same monomer, or between several different monomers. Through this process, stable covalent chemical bonds are produced ("Polymerization"). A chain in which all of the monomers are linked to two other monomers, with the exception of the end monomers, is known as a linear polymer. Polymers can be formatted in several ways other than linear polymers such as, branched polymers,

"Synthetic organic polymers are human-made polymers with various main chain and side chain compositions" ("Types of Synthetic Organic Polymers"). Synthetic polymers are typically found in consumer products. One of the seven most common synthetic organic polymers is polypropylene (PP). Polypropylene, also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic polymer, meaning it is pliable and moldable above a specific temperature, and is a solid at room temperature ("Types of Synthetic Organic Polymers"). Polypropylene is very versatile and can serve as either a plastic or a fiber. As a fiber, it is most commonly used for carpeting and is very convenient for the production of outdoor carpets due to its resistance to water ("Polypropylene"). As a plastic, polypropylene is highly chemical resistant, and has the high melting point of 338°F, making it perfect for use in items such as dishwasher-safe plating, chemical tanks, storage containers, and sinks, just to name a few ("Plastic