Theoretical basics of polymer physics

The course consists of two parts. The students study the theoretical background of polymer physics, on the one hand, and apply it to the solution of an industrially relevant problem, on the other. Theory contains the following main topics;

-        Characteristics of the molecular structure of polymers; physical states. Characterization of the flexibility of polymer chains. Mathematical description of conformation distribution. Intermolecular interactions acting among the chains and their relationship with chain flexibility. Physical states of polymers.

-        Equilibrium rubber elasticity. Thermodynamics of rubber elasticity. Statistical theory of the rubber elasticity of polymer networks.

-        Kinetics of rubber elasticity. Relaxation phenomena, relaxation and retardation, hysteresis. Periodic loading. Complex dynamic modulus and compliance. The time-temperature superposition principle. Phenomenological approach to viscoelastic deformation, and viscoelastic material models.

-        The glassy state of polymers. The characteristics of glassy polymers and the glass transition process. The glass transition temperature of polymers and its determination. The characteristics of the deformation of polymer glasses.

-        The melt state of polymers. Types of flow curves and the mechanism of flow. The behavior of polymer melts in the Newtonian flow region. The behavior of polymers in the non-Newtonian flow regime. Elastic properties of polymer melts, flow anomalies.

-        The crystalline state of polymers. The conditions of crystallization. The structure of crystalline polymers. The supermolecular structure of crystalline polymer. The mechanism and kinetics of polymer crystallization. The characteristics of the melting of crystalline polymer. The mechanical properties of crystalline polymers.

-        The liquid crystalline state of polymers. The general characteristics of liquid crystallinity. Liquid crystalline polymers.

-        The strength of polymers. Quantities characterizing the strength of polymers. The impact resistance of polymers and their fracture mechanical characterization. Effect of structural factors on the fracture of polymers.  

Based on the knowledge acquired, the students must propose a solution for a practical problem, which occurred at an industrial partner of the department. Students have to use the knowledge obtained during their theoretical studies in polymer physics, but they must rely also on other subjects like plastics processing, additives as well as blends and composites. Students summarize their ideas in an essay of about 5-15 pages. Oral examination is based on issues raised by the essay and students must support their statements with appropriate theoretical arguments.