New chemistry could make it easier to design materials to order

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a method of controlling the composition of a range of polymers, the large molecules that are commonly used as plastics and fibres. They are the building blocks for a vast number of everyday materials. The new research, funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, demonstrates how the chemical reactions used to produce polymers can be controlled, especially in fixing the composition of a polymer using a mixture of up to three different monomers. The secret lies in understanding and switching ‘on’ and ‘off’ the catalyst used to make the polymers. The researchers found that by using this catalyst control method, it is possible to select the monomers that will be added to the chain and therefore control the pattern and composition of the final polymers. Source :  http://www.twi-global.com/news-events/industry-updates/equipment-consumables-and-materials-industry/