Fundamentals of Plastics: Commercial Polymeric Materials
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3 DAY LECTURE/WORKSHOP
OFFERED TWICE:
January 11-13, 2010 (CRS# 00.735-001)
June 7-9, 2010 (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
© 1995-2009 University of Massachusetts Lowell,
Continuing Studies, Corporate & Distance Education