Polymer chemistry is the branch of chemistry that focuses on the study of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating structural units called monomers. These polymers can be natural, like proteins and cellulose, or synthetic, such as plastics and nylon. Understanding polymer chemistry is essential for developing new materials with specific properties for various applications.
The field encompasses various processes, including polymerization, where monomers chemically bond to form a polymer. Researchers in polymer chemistry explore the relationships between a polymer's structure and its properties, enabling innovations in industries like medicine, electronics, and materials science.