Chain Structure and Configuration

In the teaching of physical polymer science, a natural progression of material begins with chain structure, proceeds through morphology, and leads on to physical and mechanical behavior. To a significant measure, one step determines the properties of the next (1). Polymer chains have three basic properties  

The molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of the molecules. These properties are discussed in Chapter 3. 

The conformation of the chains in space. The term conformation refers to the different arrangements of atoms and substituents of the polymer chain brought about by rotations about single bonds. Examples of different polymer conformations include the fully extended planar zigzag, helical, folded chain, and random coUs. Some conformations of a random coil might be 

The methods of determining polymer chain conformation are discussed in Chapters 3 and 5. 

Introduction to Physical Polymer Science, by L.H. Sperling ISBN 0-471-70606-X Copyright 2006 by John Wiley Sons, Inc. 

---