CHEM 314 - Polymers and Macromolecules

Polymer and macromolecular chemistry combine to form a highly interdisciplinary field that cuts across all areas of modern chemistry. In particular, the preparation of polymeric and macromolecular materials can be used to illustrate many of the fundamental concepts of synthetic chemistry. Like small molecules as applied in medicines, polymeric and macromolecular materials occupy a central role in maintaining overall societal well-being. However, unlike small molecules, which are typically synthesized and used as discreet, homogeneous compounds, polymeric and macromolecular materials are usually synthesized and used as a heterogeneous distribution of compounds of the same structural motif but varying size. This course will explore: a) key historical developments (and people) giving rise to modern polymer and macromolecular chemistry; b) classical and contemporary protocols for polymer and macromolecular synthesis; c) compare and contrast physical properties of small, mono-disperse molecules with those of large, poly-disperse polymer and macromolecular substances; d) applications of polymer and macromolecular materials to societal needs. Corequisite(s): CHEM 212 Alternate years. (4 Credits)