Course Description

Advanced Chemistry Polymerisation

This advanced chemistry course delves into different types of polymers and their unique properties while explaining the polymerisation process. We cover the general properties of condensation polymerisation and go through the phases of addition polymerisation. We then examine synthetic polyamides, including nylon and kevlar, and identify their numerous applications. This advanced chemistry then moves on to polymers found in the human body, such as proteins and nucleic acids, and outlines their significant roles in facilitating body functions. We examine the amino acids that make up proteins and describe their impact on the body. The course also outlines the classifications of α-amino acids that serve as the building blocks of proteins. We cover protein’s general aspects and identify the four main levels of protein structure organisation: primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary. The course then covers the acid and alkali hydrolysis of proteins. Our last section discusses polyesters, including terylene and poly (lactic acid), which are used in a wide range of applications. We compare low- and high-density polyethylene and non-solvent-based adhesives, such as epoxy resins and superglue. We study photodegradable polymers and explain the methods used to accelerate the biodegradation of plastics. Finally, the course explains how to predict polymerisation types, repeating units and identifying monomers in the polymer section. Polymers play a key role in human anatomy and activity so enrol in this advanced chemistry course to improve your knowledge of organic chemistry.
Registration Link

Provider

alison

Target

  • Learners: Advanced high school or university students studying chemistry or related fields.
  • Professionals: Chemists, material scientists, and biochemists seeking to enhance their knowledge of polymers.
  • Researchers: Individuals involved in polymer research and development.

Sector

  • Education: Higher education institutions and training programs.
  • Research and Development: Laboratories and industrial research sectors focusing on material science.
  • Healthcare: Professionals working in biomedical applications of polymers.

Area

  • Chemistry: Specifically focused on organic and polymer chemistry.
  • Materials Science: Study of synthetic and natural polymers.
  • Biochemistry: Examination of biopolymers like proteins and nucleic acids in human biology.

Method

Online

Certification

Yes

Duration

Assessment

Yes

Cost

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain condensation and addition polymerisation
  • Identify monomers in the polymer section
  • Define ‘polymer’, ‘polyamides’, ‘polymerisation’, ‘esters’ and ‘polyesters’
  • Identify the characteristics of polymers found in the human body and describe their important role
  • Describe the general aspects of proteins and outline their four structures and hydrolysis
  • Outline the characteristics of nucleic acids
  • Explain how to predict the type of polymerisation reaction and repeating units
  • Discuss the properties and applications of synthetic polyamides
  • Outline the characteristics of Terylene and Polylactic acid (PLA)
  • Compare low and high-density polyethylene
  • Identify biodegradable and photodegradable polymers

Learning Content

  • Types of Polymerisation
  • Useful Polymers and Polymer Deduction
  • Course assessment