Summary

Polymer science, as a discipline, delves into the complexities of macromolecular synthesis, chain architecture, self-assembly, and the dynamics that govern material properties. From the microcosm of monomers, repeating units, and chain conformations to the macrocosm of bulk plastics, elastomers, fibers, composites, and global polymer industries, these polymer concepts will unravel the threads that weave together the fabric of macromolecular science and engineering.

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Cellulose Solvents
Cellulose solvents are liquid media capable of disrupting the extensive hydrogen-bonded network of cellulose and bringing the otherwise insoluble biopolymer into molecularly dispersed or colloidal solution. Because cellulose does not melt and is insoluble in water and in almost all conventional organic liquids, its shaping and chemical transformation generally require dissolution. Two broad strategies are used: derivatizing media, which convert the hydroxyl groups temporarily into labile esters or ethers, and non-derivatizing media, which dissolve cellulose directly through concentrated aqueous alkali, inorganic salts in dipolar aprotic solvents, molten salt hydrates, amine oxides, ionic liquids, or deep eutectic solvents. Cellulose solvents underpin the regenerated-cellulose industry—viscose, cuprammonium and Lyocell fibres, films and nonwovens—and they enable homogeneous chemical modification, molar-mass characterization, lignocellulosic biomass fractionation, and the fabrication of hydrogels, aerogels, membranes and cellulose composites.
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  • 19 Oct 2026
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