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The polymer industry has been consolidating itself over the years due to its versatility. After all, it can be used in basic everyday items, personal items and even complex parts in the automotive and medical sectors.
In this article, we'll go into detail about the material, its main applications and where to find it. Check it out!
Polymers are macromolecules formed by the repetition of smaller units (called monomers). Joined by covalent bonds, they form a repetitive structure; see:
The term "polymer" comes from the Greek, where "poly" means "many" and "meros" means "parts", indicating a molecular assembly made up of several repeated units.
Flexibility, elasticity and resistance are some of the attributes that polymers can have depending on their composition.
These macromolecules are found in different forms such as pellets, liquid, solid plate and insect resin in nature.
One of the most common classifications of polymers is related to their reaction to heat. In this case, they can be categorized into: thermoplastics and thermosets.
Below, we'll go into more detail about these definitions. Follow along!
Thermoplastics thermoplastics are polymers that soften when heated and solidify when cooled. This characteristic allows them to be molded and reshaped several times without significant chemical alterations to their structure.
As a result, thermoplastic polymers can be recycled and reused - making them widely used for their versatility and contribution to sustainability.
Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are examples of thermoplastics. When it comes to polymer compounds in pellet form, thermoplastic elastomers(TPE) are a well-known example.
Unlike thermoplastics, thermosets (or thermosetting polymers) undergo a curing process that generates an irreversible cross-linked structure. Therefore, once cured, they cannot be remolded or melted, as their molecular network becomes fixed.
This process generates high thermal and mechanical resistance. The robustness and stability of thermosets make them widely used in applications that require extreme durability and resistance to harsh conditions.
Examples of thermosets include epoxy and phenolic resins, as well as natural and synthetic rubbers.
The versatility of this material means that it can be used in a variety of industrial applications. Thus, these materials are of great importance to sectors ranging from the manufacture of everyday items to the construction industry.
In the packaging industry, polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene are used to produce plastic films, bags and containers. This is possible thanks to their flexibility, chemical resistance and ability to be recycled.
In the automotive sectorthe material can be used to manufacture interior and exterior components such as dashboards, sealing parts and bumpers. It is also used to create complex safety and comfort systems.
The electronics industry uses polymers to produce insulating components, connectors and devices that require high precision and resistance.
In constructionpolymers are ideal for coatings, thermal insulation and prefabricated structures.
In addition to these segments, the material can be used in the field of medical, agro-industry and in various consumer goods sectors - such as hairbrushes, skateboard wheels and cell phone covers.
With over 30 years' experience in the market, FCC is a benchmark in the development of new elastomeric polymers.
Our portfolio includes more than 140 items in a wide variety of materials that meet the requirements of the most diverse sectors.
Our thermoplastic elastomers combine the versatility and ease of processing of thermoplastics with the durability and technical performance of thermosets. The result is unique solutions for industrial applications.
So if you're looking for innovative, high-quality solutions, FCC is the right choice in polymers.
Find out more about our range of products and how we can meet the demands of your business. Talk to our experts now and find out which material is ideal for your project.
