Synthetic polymers often possess characteristics that make them more suitable for specific applications compared to natural polymers, exhibiting various desirable properties.
Key Advantages of Synthetic Polymers
Based on their composition and manufacturing processes, synthetic polymers demonstrate several beneficial properties that can surpass those of natural polymers in certain contexts. These advantages contribute to their wide range of uses across various industries.
Specific advantages highlighted include:
- Good flexibility: Synthetic polymers can be engineered to be highly flexible, allowing them to be shaped and used in applications requiring elasticity and pliability.
- Good strength: They often exhibit high tensile strength, meaning they can withstand significant pulling forces without breaking.
- Good resistivity: This refers to their ability to resist various environmental factors, such as heat, electricity, or degradation.
- Good chemical inertness: Synthetic polymers can be designed to be non-reactive with many chemicals, making them suitable for use in harsh environments or for storing reactive substances.
- Other desirable properties: The manufacturing process allows for tailoring other specific characteristics as needed for particular applications.
Practical Applications Driven by Advantages
Due to their fine quality of high strength and elasticity, synthetic polymers are extensively utilized in demanding applications. Examples include:
- Making ropes for climbing
- Producing various nets
- Manufacturing parachutes
- Creating fishing nets
These applications leverage the polymer's ability to be both strong under tension and flexible enough for practical use.
