Polymer Chemistry

The graduate course in polymer chemistry aims to compare and discuss different polymerization processes with respect to chemical mechanisms and different steps, by-reactions and modifications which can occur. The course aims at giving knowledge and tools for designing new polymers. This is an advanced course in polymer chemistry which will give deepening and general knowledge in the chemistry, structure, production and modification processes of polymers. This is not a continuous course like the polymer chemistry course for undergraduate students, which aims at giving a comprehensive picture, but more of a methodology course which will supplement and deepen the knowledge acquired from the basic course. The course will stimulate to critical examination and discussion about actual synthesis routes in the field, existing as well as new ones. Each topic will be discussed in direct relation to the forefront research exploring the chemical pathways with ample examples from contemporary scientific advances.

 

Course aims

After passed course the student shall be able to:

• From a desired macromolecular chemical structure: draw a suitable synthesis path and suggest appropriate process parameters.
• From a given monomer: draw a suitable synthesis path and suggest appropriate process parameters.
• Understand the relationships between polymerization conditions and the polymer product characteristics with respect to molecular weight, molecular architecture, stereochemistry, and morphology.
• Describe the kinetics associated with various polymerization mechanisms.
• Describe and predict the results from different modification processes applied to polymers.
• Value, understand and use the development in the field of polymer chemistry synthesis.