Complements of macromolecular chemistry [SCHIM115]

Learning outcomes

- Selection of polymers according to structure-property relationships for specific applications, - Impact of the polymer industry and benefits of the circular economy, - Introduction to the material, technological and economic constraints of the polymer industry.

Objectives

The objective of this course is to demonstrate how macromolecular chemistry, combined with polymer physics and engineering, has enabled the large-scale production of the main industrial polymeric materials used daily in sectors as varied as transport, packaging, construction, electronics, agriculture and the biomedical and pharmaceutical fields.

Content

This course presents, comments and analyses the evolution of polymeric materials, thermoplastics, rubber, elastomers and thermosets, from their industrialisation in the 20th century to the present day, as well as the main stages and scientific principles underlying their design, production and life cycle with a view to their more environmentally responsible use. Particular attention is paid to fibres, heterophase polymeric materials and (nano)composites as well as electroconjugated, heat resistant and bioplastic polymers. The impact of applied macromolecular chemistry on the development of the plastics industry will be demonstrated, in perfect complementarity with the "Macromolecular Chemistry" course taught in 3rd year BAC in Chemical Sciences. In addition, this course addresses the material, technological, economic and legal constraints faced by this particular industry, with particular reference to research and innovation.