ABSTRACT
Before we go into details of the chemistry of polymers it is appropriate to briefly outline a few landmarks in the historical development of what we now know as polymers. Polymers have been with us from the beginning of time; they form the very basis (building blocks) of life. Animals, plants — all classes of living organisms — are composed of polymers. However, it was not until the middle of the 20th century that we began to understand the true nature of polymers. This understanding came with the development of plastics, which are true man-made materials that are the ultimate tribute to man’s creativity and ingenuity. As we shall see in subsequent discussions, the use of polymeric materials has permeated every facet of our lives. It is hard to visualize today’s world with all its luxury and comfort without man-made polymeric materials.
