Usage of polymers as renewable energy sources.

In renewable energy technologies, a significant contribution and steady growth is demonstrated by polymeric materials, in particular in the development of solar energy. Their potential applications are associated with the entire spectrum of renewable energy sources (wind, water, solar energy and bioenergy). Usage of PM leads to preserving natural resources and does not harm the environment. The contribution of non-traditional renewable energy sources to the global energy balance in the future is estimated from 1-2% to 10%, although today there are countries where the share of these sources exceeds half of the national energy balance. The physical and chemical properties of polymeric materials in solid, viscous, glassy states (plastics, rubber, fibers) have found their application in various industries and energy. The development of composite materials based on them with specified properties is a highly efficient and economical solution (rubber, sealants and adhesives, paints and varnishes, foam plastics and honeycomb plastics, thermoplastics, thermoplastics, etc.). Thus, article makes an emphasis on the current state of polymeric materials (PMs) with regards to their application as new renewable energy sources (RES). The statistics and current trends across the world concerning PMs will be discussed as well as methods of their production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]