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Discusses the production and use of polymer materials as thermal insulators. Lists several materials that provide varying degrees of insulation. Describes the production of polymer foam and focuses on the major applications of polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam, and polyisocyanurate foam. (TW)

Discusses the product of alkenes, including isopropyl alcohol, ethylene, propylene, thermoplastics, and synthetic rubber. The developments and chemical formulas of the products are described. (YP)

A number of hands-on science activities are suggested to acquaint children with the variety and properties of polymers. Common polymers are listed; individual and group activities are described; and a reproducible worksheet is included. (IAH)

Illustrates how roofs that deflect the sun's heat away from the building can significantly reduce school energy budgets. Discusses the installation of white polymer roofs and use of reflective coatings. (GR)

Discusses the history and development of Plasma Desorption Mass Spectrometry to determine molecular weights and structures of proteins and polymers. Outlines theory, instrumentation, and sample preparation commonly used. Gives several examples of resulting spectra. (ML)

This review covers methods for identification, characterization, and determination of rubber and materials in rubber. Topics include: general information, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal methods, gel permeation chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, analysis related to safety and health, and miscellaneous techniques. (MVL)

Reviews techniques for the characterization and analysis of synthetic polymers, copolymers, and blends. Includes techniques for structure determination, separation, and quantitation of additives and residual monomers; determination of molecular weight; and the study of thermal properties including degradation mechanisms. (MVL)

Proposes a two-stage experimental approach that combines preparative chemistry and polymer characterization. Describes the simple organic synthesis of a plasticizer, the dioctylphthalate, and its direct use in the preparation of a styrene/divinylbenzene network copolymer. Discusses how to evaluate the physical properties of the resulting plastic. (TW)

Describes a polymerization reactor engineering course offered at Michigan Technological University which focuses on the design and operation of industrial polymerization reactors to achieve a desired degree of polymerization and molecular weight distribution. Provides a list of the course topics and assigned readings. (TW)

Lists eight sources of technical information suitable for classroom use which deal with polymer materials. Provides the names and addresses of these societies and associations and describes the type of information each has available. (TW)

Describes two demonstrations (1) a dust explosion using a coffee can, candle, rubber tubing, and cornstarch and (2) forming a silicate-polyvinyl alcohol polymer which can be pressed into plastic sheets or molded. Gives specific instructions. (MVL)

Describes a three-week summer program teaching selected chemistry faculty how to incorporate polymer chemistry into chemistry courses. In addition to lectures, the program conducted many experiments and provided a trip to industry laboratories. (YP)

Discusses a continuing education course that reached 1000 viewers at 43 North American sites. Points out that each professor had 35 minutes for his presentation followed by a 10-minute call-in question and answer period. Notes polymer topics will be the focus of upcoming lessons. (MVL)

Reviews current biochemistry, education, and polymer course options found in chemistry programs. Proposes a new core curriculum with 28 semester hours with courses in inorganic, chemical, and instrumental analysis, organic, bioorganic, and physical chemistry. Notes that the new curriculum would better prepare students for the existing employment areas. (MVL)

Gives a brief account of fluoropolymers as an important part of polymer chemistry and attempts to make the topic relevant to the secondary school audience. Provides general characteristics and applications for fluoropolymers. (MVL)