Polymers

Polymer are
natural or synthetic macromolecules comped
of manyrepeating units
Polymers: Long-Chain Molecules

• Produced by linking small repeat units (monomers) together.

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• Di erent monomer-linking methods create various polymer types.

• Physical properties di er signi cantly from monomers, depending on chain length.

• Small amounts of very long or short chains can drastically a ect material properties.
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Variations in Polymers

• Chemical Structure of monomer units.

• 3D Structure of the polymer chains.

• Di erent Monomer Units combined.

• Length of Polymer Chains impacts strength and exibility.

• Distribution of Chain Lengths a ects overall properties.

Applications of Synthetic Polymeric Materials in Biomedicine

• Medical Disposable Supplies (e.g., gloves, syringes).

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• Prosthetic Materials for limb replacements.

• Dental Materials for llings and dentures.

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• Implants like hip joints and heart valves.

 • Dressings for wound care.
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• Extracorporeal Devices (e.g., dialysis machines).

• Encapsulants for protecting sensitive materials.

• Polymeric Drug Delivery Systems for controlled medication release.

• Tissue Engineered Products for regenerative medicine.

• Orthodoses as substitutes for metal and ceramic components.

polymerizations

1 Addition or chain growth free radical

2 Condensation step growth

1 Addition free radical

self addition of monomer molecules

to each

a chain men
other
veryrapidlythrough
No byproduct
free radical
1 Initiation
2 propagation
 3 Termination

radical of
Litton Free produced
by decomposed

compounds

Amendments heat
right
catalyst
0

orov
Interposes
R Éyt R 42
at
2

where the structural unit start

Eeatg to form a polymer
linking
Radical site attached in initiation act
as a ustable unit this result linking
and transferring of electron which
eventually form chain
 RTM RM

RM M RMM

Iation
Chain has to stop so that
we get our final polymen

2 Condensation

small molecule such as water will be considered

out
bythe chemical Rxn
R NH R COOH RCONHR 120
amine amide
carboxylic fondness
 Molecular weight
1. De nition of Molecular Weight in Polymers:

• Describes the length of polymer chains.

• Longer chains correspond to higher molecular weight.

2. Monomer Contribution:

• Each monomer has a molecular weight, often called the formula weight.
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• Polymer molecular weight increases as monomers bond together.

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3. In uence on Properties:

• Molecular weight signi cantly impacts physical properties and mechanical behavior.
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4. Degree of Polymerization:

• Molecular weight depends on the degree of polymerization, i.e., the average number of

monomer units in the polymer chain.

5. Molecular Weight Distribution:

• Refers to the statistical variation in molecular weights across di erent polymer chains.

• Can be broad or narrow depending on polymerization conditions.

6. Chain Length Variability:

• Polymerization processes naturally produce chains of varying lengths.

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• This results from random or promoted events during polymer formation.

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• Polymers contain macromolecules with di erent degrees of polymerization and molecular
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weight.
 Molecular distributions
polymen weight
synthetic polymer always containpolymerchain
with a range of chain length
It can destribe by average molecular weight
i e the average of all the chain lengths in the
sample

Different sample of same polymer can have

distributions
same average chain length but different
of chain lengths depending on the method of
production

molecular weight is important

diff
in order to verify these
molecular weight expressed by average values

Two commonly used averages are the

Number molecular Mn weight
average
weight average molecular weight Mw

n
nhI ME Tiff
5191 net notes
 If
Shape of Distribution Read
Effect of Molecular weight

Thermoplastic thermosetting
1 1
Polymers which soften polymer which once
on
heatingandhanden on hardened cannot be
soften
cooling again
 chloride PVC
Polyvinylmm

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a versatile, synthetic thermoplastic polymer produced

mm Too

through the polymerization of vinyl chloride monomers. Its molecular structure contains large

chloride (Cl) side groups, contributing to its amorphous nature and rigidity.

It
Key Properties

• Tg (Glass Transition Temperature): 75°C to 105°C, providing structural stability

so one

across various temperature ranges.

• Amorphous Structure: Lacks a crystalline structure, resulting in high transparency

and rigidity.
 • High Melt Viscosity: Makes processing challenging without specialized equipment.

• Thermal Sensitivity: Susceptible to thermal degradation, releasing hydrogen

O
chloride (HCl) if not stabilized.

• Chemical Resistance: Excellent resistance to acids, bases, salts, and alcohols, but
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sensitive to solvents like ketones and aromatic hydrocarbons.

Thermal Stabilization

• To prevent degradation, thermal stabilizers such as metallic soaps (e.g., calcium-

zinc or barium-zinc) or salts are incorporated.

• Stabilizers inhibit HCl release, preserving the polymer’s mechanical properties and

extending its lifespan.

Industrial Applications

• Construction: Pipes, fittings, conduits, vinyl flooring, siding, and window frames.

• Electrical: Wire and cable insulation due to its insulating properties.

• Packaging: Food-grade films and containers, owing to its durability and cost-

effectiveness.

• Automotive: Dashboards, floor mats, door panels, and weatherstripping.

• Consumer Goods: Inflatable products, garden hoses, and household appliances.

Medical Applications

• Medical Containers: Blood and urine collection bags, ostomy pouches.

 • Medical Tubing: Essential for IV sets, dialysis equipment, catheters, and respiratory

devices.

• Sterilizable Equipment: Suitable for single-use applications due to its compatibility

with sterilization methods like ethylene oxide and gamma radiation.

Environmental Considerations

• Recyclability: PVC is recyclable, but improper disposal can release toxic chlorine-

containing compounds.

• Sustainability Efforts: Research continues into developing bio-based PVC and

environmentally safer plasticizers to reduce ecological impact.

PVC’s cost-effectiveness, durability, and versatility make it indispensable in various industries,

especially in construction, healthcare, and packaging.

Polyethylene (PE)
Most common plastic; annual global production ~80 million tonnes.
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• Abbreviation: PE; also known as polythene.

• IUPAC Name: Polyethene or poly(methylene).

• Structure: Composed of repeating ethylene (–CH₂–CH₂–) units.

• Properties: Lightweight, durable, exible, and chemically resistant.

• Primary Use: Packaging (plastic bags, lms, containers, bottles, etc.).

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• Also used in automotive, medical, and construction industries.
 OF P F
Mad on Grades
UTtra high
molecular
weight
polyethylene
orthopedic
implants
tibial plateau
y low Density
High density theme very
Polyethylene VLDPE
HDPE low Density Entruded tubes
Polyethylene densityLope Polyethylene
polyethylene 4.8
catheter
Pharmaceuticals tub
Flexible congipanitiithggagamannmly
Nonwoven fabrics

caps Nanaw.iemehafed Tpacking

polypropylene PP

A versatile thermoplastic with properties similar

to
polyethylene PE
hermal properties glass transition temperatureTg 12 s

meeting temperature Tm 125 167 C

85 0
0.98g cm
Density
Additives for Improved performance
_Antioxidant enhancethermal stability
Light stabilizers prevent UV degradation
 lubricants
mold release agent

ammunitions
due to high
finger joint prostheses x

Disposable hypothermic syringes

Blood oxygenation membranes

Artificial vascular grafts

solutions
Packing for medical devices
drugs

polyacralates

formed by polymerization of acrylate esters

polymerized under
mild conditions often at
Safely bulk
temperature as low as 40 C

propentiesandapplicationsmnm.im

High light transmission Better them Ideal ton

optical applications

Biocompatibility safe for medical and biological

applications
 Mechanical strength suitable for prosthetics and
flexibility Implants

Applications
VIA Intraocular lenses for cataract surgery
Bone cement for joint prostheses

dental prostheses
middle ear prostheses

Effect of molecularweight andchemical

composition on polymerproperties

1 Molecular Weight and its effect

molecular weight significantly affects its mechanical

properties As the molecular weight increases

Long chains
The polymerchains becomes
longer and more

entanttwithrestricts their movement This increased entanglement

leads to greater rigidity and strength

less mobile resulting in
Eledmhobilty longer chains are

a stiffer and strongermaterial

VI Part If shorter chains are present they act
like plasticizers increasing flexibility but reducing overall strength
to more predictabs
Anarrow molecular weight distributiontypicallyleads
and desirable properties

Relation Between Molecular weight Tg and Tm

The temperature at
Iistaitiomntnmperate.is
which polymer changes from
a a hand glassy
state to a soft rubbery state

melt
As molecular weight increases both
rise due to
Tg and Tm tend to stronger intermolecular
forces and chain entanglements

Enhancing Rigidity

To increase a polymer's
rigidity modifications
can be made to reduce chain mobility For Instance
introducing aromatic rings or cross linking chains can
significantly increase stiffness and temperature resistance
 Temperature effect on
polymers

already read
Tg
Below chains
ioety Tg polymer are

11g.ly
and become more
Above
Tg they gain mobility
flexible

polymen for
Biomedical applications
durable and easy to process
lightweight
be formed into fibers
Can textiles films and nods
Resemble natural tissues like
collagen
and

enabling better bonding

close wounds and secure
Adhesive polymers help
orthopedic implants
 polyamidesa nylon 6

as Nylon 6 exhibit hydrogen

polyamides such
bond due to presence of amide group in their molecular
Str

Hydrogenbonding plays
a crucial role in their mechanical

strength crystallinity and fiber forming ability

Uses of Polyamide in Biomedical Applications (Short Points)

1. Surgical Sutures: Non-absorbable sutures (e.g., Nylon 6, Nylon 66) for wound closure.

2. Orthopedic Implants: Screws, pins, and plates for bone fixation; some are bioresorbable.
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3. Tissue Engineering Scaffolds: Supports cell growth in bone and cartilage regeneration.
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4. Drug Delivery Systems: Polyamide nanoparticles for controlled drug release.

5. Catheters and Surgical Instruments: Flexible, durable, and easily sterilizable devices.

6. Dental Applications: Flexible, aesthetic materials for partial dentures.

7. Prosthetics: Lightweight and strong components for artificial limbs.

Limitations: Hygroscopic nature, reduced strength in moist environments, and enzymatic degradation

in vivo
 Bone Cement (PMMA)
Bone cement is commonly used in clinical applications to achieve secure and stable fixation of joint
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prostheses, particularly in hip and knee replacements.

The primary components of bone cement include:

1. Poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) Powder: This serves as the structural base.

2. Methylmethacrylate (MMA) Monomer Liquid: This liquid polymerizes to form a solid

matrix.

To enhance performance and ensure proper curing, the following additives are included:

• Hydroquinone: Added to prevent premature polymerization, which may occur due to

factors like light exposure or elevated temperatures.

• N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine: Functions as an accelerator, promoting the cold-curing process

of the compound.

When the powder and liquid are mixed, the MMA monomer undergoes free radical polymerization,

D
resulting in a solid and durable material suitable for orthopedic applications.
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Fluorocarbon Polymers
Rubbers
Polyurethanes
 PLA PGA
Polycaprotactone PCL
Non hydrolysable smart Hydrogels
polymers

Fluorocarbon Polymers

primary polymer polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE

commonly know as Teflon
Dupont

Imlunine Beadpolymers
polythifluorochloroethylene PTFCE

Polyvinylfluoride PVF
PTFE

polymerized from tetrafluoroethylene under the

Rxn
require peroxide catalyst
Excess water used
to remove heat during the

Ryn

LphpentigofPTF .IE
overal 94
nty crystalline
 0 PGPa
Elasticity
friction coefficient 0 I

hemtimecal
It is used in artificial blood
Inelegaft
vessels due to its biocompatibility chemical
resistance and ability to resist clot formation

it is employed in
tethleommponents
mechanical heart valves because of its low

friction and non reactive surface reducing wear

and thrombus formation

fluorocarbon materials
Lydelivery are

utilized as coating in drug delivery devices to

control release notes
doing

PTFE coating on surgical

IT Y Emem1nion
sticksuntaee improving
precision and Ease of use
 Rubbers

Rubbers in Implants
Types of
silicon rubber
Natural rubber
Synthetic rubber
D effinition A material that can be streeted

afeatdy.to at least twice its original length

at room temperature
upon releasing the stress it returns to its
with force
approximate original length

up to 30 sulfur produces hand rubber

nefatixidant
protect from oxidation
Improve properties
aging
Roleoffillersn.ir
Carbon black or silica powders Improve physical
Patents
Uses in Biomedical
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Implant
Breast Implant silicon rubber
testicular and chin Implants
Finger joints Implants
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i
orthopedic braces and supports

wouncreandsurgitalppications
silicon wound dressing Promote healing
and minimizing
scarring
surgical seals and gaskets
 Polyurethanes

are
Thentingeolymes Polyurethanes
typically thermosetting polymers often used to
Coat Implants

Produced by reacting prepolymer chain

a

chain A with an aromatic

diisocyanate

Polyurethane rubber is strong and exhibits

excellent resistance to oils and chemicals
uses
usedto coat implants like pacemakers
heart valves and orthopedic devices due to
their
biocompatibility and durability

PLA
Polylactic acid polyglycolic acid PGA

are biodegradable polymers

PLA PGA
Belong
to the
poly α hydroxy acid family and
are linear polyesters
 Production
Polycondensation polymerization of
Tacticand glycolic acids
This method yields low molecular weight
material

Copymen

vinyl a PGA and 10 PLA

copolymer of 90

widely used for absorbable satures

Khailing
50 PGA 50 PLA Copolymer Biodegrades

faster and is often used in

drug delivery
scaffolds for tissingineering

Hydrolysis of PGA
Degradation Gly
L Glycine

Uses In Biomedical
screws plates pins
Biodegradable
and tissue anchors
 Absorable Sature like vichyl
scaffolds for bone cartilage and
skin Megenation

mmmneeTrnggtpbto
Biodegradable polymer
used in tissue engineering and drug delivery
system
it suitable for long
Biodegrades slowly making
term applications

EdÉby ring opening polymerization

of

E capro lactone Catalyst stannous octane

Melting point 59 64 C
Glass transition temperature 60 C

Rubbery at room temperature compared

more to

PLA
mumredigshsion
used in scaffolds for Bone and soft
tissue regeneration
 sustained
Enables controlled drug release
Absorables sutures for wound closure
wound healing
Root canal
filling

nominy

O r
 silicon
Polysiloxane

Breast Implant
used in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery
provides a natural feel and biocompatibility

water
long
term stability against hydrolysis
breakdown
Resistant to enzymatic degradation in the body

Naturally maintains elasticity durability

used for tubing blood vessels urethral tubes
Essential for dialysis
used Artificial wrist toe elbow Joints
in
finger
Application in artificial tendons heart valve