Fundamentals of Plastics: Commercial Polymeric Materials

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3 DAY LECTURE/WORKSHOP
OFFERED TWICE:
January 9-11, 2012 (CRS# 00.735-001)
June 4-6, 2012 (CRS# 00.735-011)
8:30am-5:00pm

TUITION: $1195

OVERVIEW
This program provides an overview of the different plastics, properties, processes, and applications of polymeric materials. Basic concepts in plastics materials are reviewed, starting with polymerization (feedstock availability & natural resources, monomer synthesis, reaction mechanisms, reactor design) through post-reactor modification and conversion. Attention will be devoted to physical properties and the role of structure and properties on processing behavior and functional performance. Market characteristics (volumes, manufacturers & trademarks, and pricing history) and comparative properties will be detailed. Individual materials such as commodity plastics, engineering resins, and specialty polymers will be contrasted for physical properties and processability. Workshops will be held in University laboratories to examine the major physical properties discussed during the classroom lectures.

CONTENT

Introduction

Organic composition
Chain substitution
Polymer architecture (molecular weight, distribution, and branching)
Homogeneity
Reaction mechanisms
Polymerization guidelines
Marketing characteristics

Chemical Nature of Plastics

Thermoplastics vs. thermosetting resins
Aliphatic vs. aromatic polymers
Crystalline vs. amorphous resins

Structure-Property Relationships

MW effect on properties
Thermal transitions
Cross-linked structures
Blending & alloying
Factors influencing Tg and Tm, crystallinity & morphology

Physical Properties

Important role of various standards writing organizations
Influence of environmental conditions, e.g. temperature, relative humidity, testing rate on physical properties, and the significance of geometry
Molding conditions on test methods/data interpretation

Testing Activities

Hands-on exposure in University labs
Investigating selected physical properties (mechanical, thermal, chemical & rheological). Multiple sessions will be devoted to discussing the correct protocols, conducting actual tests, and interpreting the generated data. Other important test methods will be discussed/demonstrated.

Polymer Additives and Modifiers

Role of these important chemicals
Compatibility and influence on both processing and functional behavior

INSTRUCTOR
Professor Stephen Burke Driscoll