Physical Chemistry of Macromolecules

Macromolecules - a separate class of matter?

Large molecules with internal connectivity should be considered a separate class of materials with their own unique thermodynamics, dynamics and mechanics. This class of materials includes synthetic polymers, biopolymers (proteins, polysaccharides, DNA) and natural materials (cellulose, lignin), in other words, molecules that are integral to our daily lives! As scientists, we need to continue to develop the potential of these materials, applications including self-healing polymers, drug delivery vehicles, flexible electronics and smart coatings. As a society, we need to solve problems associated with the fate of macromolecules in the environment and how to design macromolecules for sustainability. These different technological directions require scientists and engineers trained in the fundamental properties of macromolecules. In this course, we will cover the physical properties of macromolecules; how we describe them, how we model their behavior, how we characterize their solution properties, and how we characterize properties.

Course Description:

This course develops fundamental principles of polymer science at an introductory level. Emphasis is placed on physical chemical concepts associated with the macromolecular chain nature of polymeric materials. Engineering aspects of the physical, mechanical and chemical properties of these materials are discussed in relation to chain microstructure. Topics include an historical introduction to polymer science and a general discussion of commercially important polymers; chain structure and molecular weight; condensation and addition synthesis mechanisms with emphasis on molecular weight distribution (MWD); methods for determining MWD; dilute solution thermodynamics and chain conformation; rubber elasticity; introduction to semi-concentrated systems; flow phenomena in polymeric systems; polymer processing; introductory aspects of polymer rheology; and thermal transitions.

Instructor:

Lynn Walker is a faculty member in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry (Courtesy) and Materials Science (Courtesy). She's been at CMU since 1997 and has taught "Macro" many times. She works in the area of complex fluid rheology and thinks that polymers are the coolest materials ever. In fact, she decided to pursue a PhD because of a lecture on polymers while a sophomore in college. It's been a passion for that long (and yes, polymers were already invented back then!). Her research focuses on the behavior of polymers in non-equilibrium environments (flow, adsorbed at interfaces, under electric fields, etc...). The course will be offered in person, but will also be recorded and available via zoom - it will be better to be in the room, but the experience will also be good if you have to join by zoom.

Course Structure:

Two lectures a week - hopefully interactive, but always enjoyable (will be recorded and uploaded to the canvas site)

Homework assignments so you get some practice - 4-5 through the semester.

Exams - one at midterm and one at the end - so you can show me what you learned.

Project - due just before Thanksgiving. Review of a journal paper so that you learn a bit about the literature.