Polymers are the
macromolecules which consist of several monomer units linked together
repeatedly. Polymers can be classified into two main groups-natural and
synthetic depending upon their source of origin. Some examples of natural
polymers are cellulose, wool, natural rubber and synthetic polymers like
Bakelite, poly vinyl chloride etc. Polymers have taken an indispensable part in
our lives because of their countless applications and are thus used so widely. They
are used in everyday life so it is very important to have knowledge about their
durability and lifespan. Such kind of information about a polymeric material
can be obtained by polymer testing. Different types of polymer have different
unique properties and we can modify their structure and properties according
our needs. One single disordering in their structure can alter their properties
thus their quality control is one of the basic necessities thus this field has
achieved a great interest in research and production.
Polymer testing
is done with a goal to provide accurate and reliable results. The microscopic
methods include SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and light microscopy by
which we can determine the composition and topography of a particular polymeric
material. SEM being expensive have lot of advantages over light microscopes
providing high resolution and three-dimensional images.
The thermal
properties can be tested through DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry), or
TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis). DSC can measure the crystallization and
fusion points and glass transition temperature by which we can classify a
polymer as amorphous or crystalline material. Through TGA we can evaluate the thermal
stability of a polymer which is the most important property and its knowledge
plays a key role in production of polymer.
FT-IR (Fourier
Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), Gel Permeation Chromatography and TGA Mass
Spectrometry are those instruments which are used to test the electrical
properties. FT-IR is used for screening and profiling a sample of polymer which
gives information about its purity.