All About Polymers | Xometry

What Is a Polymer?

A polymer is a class of natural and synthetic substances composed of very large molecules. Natural polymers are the major building blocks of living organisms, including proteins/polyamides, polynucleotides (RNA, DNA), and lignins (coniferyl alcohol compounds). Various natural and man-made minerals also qualify as polymers. These include diamond, quartz, concrete, and silicone rubbers. Man-made polymers are a broad collection of diverse chemistries/monomers that are induced to catalyze by various means. These result in polymers as diverse as LSR (liquid silicone rubber) and LCP (liquid crystal polymer).

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Polymers are also called plastics. This term derives from the highly plastic behavior of some of the earliest materials such as polyethylene, which can undergo very large plastic deformations under load before a fracture occurs. Polymers are also often referred to as resins (or synthetic resins) because of the natural tree resin origins of some of the (primitive) natural polymer materials used for thousands of years.

Polymers are made of repeating steps of simpler compounds called monomers. Many chemicals have the potential to be polymerized into chains that make a material whose properties differ extremely from the monomer—these are polymers. Monomers can be organic chemical gases, oily liquids, amino acids, sugars, alcohols, and many more chemical types.

Properties of Polymers

Discussed below are the mechanical, chemical, optical, and electrical properties of polymers: 

Mechanical Properties of Polymers

1. Polymers have the ability to stretch and deform under load and recover unaltered when the load is removed. Most polymers show some elastic behavior; some are extremely elastic.
2. Polymers have the ability to permanently or viscously stretch and deform under load. Some polymers are crystalline and brittle, however.
3. Polymers cover a spectrum of strengths from almost liquid to near-light-metal strengths. Natural polymers generally have low strength, when compared with synthetic resins.

Chemical Properties of Polymers

1. Many polymers are highly durable molecules that are resistant to many or all forms of natural, environmental, and chemical degradation. Others, particularly natural polymers, are extremely delicate and fragile. Many polymers are susceptible to organic acids, triggering depolymerization and breakdown. Other polymers are highly soluble in organic solvents such as chloroform, acetone, alcohols, etc.
2. Most synthetic polymers are hydrophobic to some degree, although some are soluble in water, which can be a useful property. Many natural polymers are hydrophilic and affected by water, though rarely fully soluble.

Optical Properties of Polymers

1. Polymers range from highly amorphous to highly crystalline.
2. Crystalline polymers are generally opaque at optical frequencies.
3. Amorphous polymers are often transparent at visible light frequencies. Transparency in amorphous polymers varies from cloudy/colored translucency to glass-like transparency.
4. Biaxial stretching can induce transparency in various polymers that are not naturally transparent.

Electrical Properties of Polymers

Almost no polymers are naturally conductive. Many are highly effective dielectrics that are widely used in the electricity and electronics sectors for isolators and insulators. High breakdown voltages predominate in polymers. A few polymers have shown unusual electrical properties including poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF-HFP)), polyacetylene (PA), polyaniline (PANI), and polypyrrole (PPy).  

Types of Polymers

Polymers generally fall into large families, with some exceptions that are isolated chemically and unrelated to any of the families. The general types of polymers are natural polymers and synthetic polymers.

Natural Polymers

Natural polymers vary significantly by source. In their natural state, there can be many variants within a nomenclature that are closely related but can be differentiated by small properties and chemical identifiers. Some of the natural polymers are listed below:

1. Cellulose in Paper and Trees

Cellulose in the cell walls of fibrous growth is a toughening/stiffening agent that gives cells bulk and allows them to contribute to building tall and strong structures in plants. Various types of cellulose are differentiated by the plant source. Once extracted and refined, the raw material loses much of its variety and can be treated as a uniform material.

2. Starches in Plants Such As Potatoes and Maize

Starches are abundant biopolymeric materials. They are used in plants to store energy in a water-stable form, consisting of α-glucose polymers. Natural starches show poor strength and thermal stability. When extracted and purified, starches can be used as organic feedstock to manufacture bio-sourced polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA). They can also be used as feedstock for industrial alcohol production, which can then be used in the manufacture of alcohol-based polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, and PVA.

3. Proteins, Such As Hair, Nails, Tortoiseshell

The protein from hair/shell, etc. is generally keratin. This can be dissolved by a variety of methods, to make feedstock for bio-sourced polymers, often including cellulose as a modifier. Large source keratin materials have long been used as-is as viable materials for product making: tortoiseshells and horns for combs, spectacle frames (horn rims), and decorative objects. Cow horns were traditionally used for waterproof storage (gunpowder) and as drinking vessels.

4. Wool From Animals

Wools are an excellent source of high-quality keratin. They are used as feedstock for several biosource polymers such as keratin dialysate and photoactive keratin films (combined with methylene blue) and are being used in medical applications.

5. Pitch or Tar

Pitch/tar/asphalt/bitumen is a family of viscoelastic materials. They are both natural and synthetic, are thermoplastic polymers, and have wide applications.

6. Natural Rubber and Lacquer

Natural rubbers are derived from the sap of a range of plants and exist as a method for carrying nutrients and fluids in the plant. They have another valuable property which is their hardening when exposed to air. They form a natural and waterproof/infection-proof barrier when the plant is injured. It is in this state that the natural monomer forms a natural polymer: latex.

Latex is exploited in various forms to make rubber compounds to promote aggressive cross-linking and greater chemical stability. Lacquers such as shellac are derived from the excretion of beetles. They can be dissolved in various solvents to make them applicable as coatings. As the solvent evaporates, the lacquer hardens.

Synthetic Polymers

Synthetic polymers are materials that are engineered for particular properties and industrially polymerized, from synthesized and natural monomers. The polymerizations can require high pressures and temperatures, catalysts, energetic reactions, and large industrial plants in many cases. Listed below are some examples of synthetic polymers:

1. Nylon

Nylons vary in the manufacturing method, molecular weight, and precise monomer class but they are all polymer chains constructed from polyamides. They are tough and chemically resilient engineering polymers with relatively poor cosmetics and a slippery, low-energy surface. Most nylon is manufactured as fibers for clothing, ropes, and webbing.

2. Polyethylene

Polyethylenes, like the nylons, are differentiated by molecular weight. The differences are generally related to the degree and complexity of side branching in the chains. The monomer is solely ethylene gas. Polythenes range from soft low density (plastic bag) material to UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight) engineering grades. Polythene is used for food containers, pipes, and engineering parts. For more information, see our guide on Polyethylene.

3. Polyester

Polyesters are generally amorphous materials, used as fibers and films. These are among the most widely used synthetic polymers. For more information, see our guide on Polyester.

4. Teflon™

PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene is an advanced synthetic polymer based on fluorines and is representative of a larger family of related polymers. These materials have very low surface energy, making them ideal for applications where chemical and abrasion resistance are critical.

5. Epoxy

Epoxy resins are generally two-part materials that either co-polymerize when mixed, or undergo a catalytic reaction triggered by one part upon the other. Epoxies are thermoset polymers that are self-catalyzing and formed/applied as liquids that harden and hold their shape as firm (usually hard) solids.

6. Silicone

Silicone rubbers are mostly made as two-part, thermoset polymers that undergo a catalytic reaction when mixed. The resultant materials are generally elastomers, with low to moderate tear resilience but high compressive strength. They’re capable of withstanding high temperatures—up to 300 °C in some cases. For more information, see our guide on Silicone.

7. Slime

Slime is an unusual material that uses borax as a cross-linking agent. It transforms PVA (polyvinyl acetate) into a stable and super elastic material that behaves as both a fluid and a solid. When mixed with glue, borate activator ions cross-link with the glue’s protein molecules, turning them into larger molecules that find it more difficult to slide past each other. You have now made a new polymer. This makes slime very sensitive to strain rate. It allows the display of brittle behavior, despite being almost a liquid.

8. Polystyrene

Polystyrene (PS) is a very widely used polymer with very useful properties. It can be foamed (with a refrigerant gas) to make a soft, fragile but highly shock-resilient and insulating material (expanded PS). It can be used without copolymerization as a low-cost, somewhat brittle transparent solid. And it can be alloyed with synthetic rubbers (acrylonitrile and butadiene) to make an opaque, rigid, and strong polymer, ABS, with a near-universal application. For more information, see our guide on Polystyrene.

Resins are crucial components in various industries, including construction, automotive, electronics, and packaging. They are typically used as the base material for coatings, adhesives, paints, and composites. As the demand for resin products grows globally, understanding the role of resin manufacturers is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of resin manufacturers, their importance, and a list of notable companies in the industry.

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What Are Resins?

Resins are solid or viscous substances used in raw form or processed into various shapes. They are categorized into two main types:

Natural resins are derived from plant sources like tree sap. For example, rosin from pine trees is commonly used in varnishes, adhesives, and inks.

Synthetic resins are man-made through polymerization, with types like epoxy, polyester, polyurethane, and phenolic resins. These are widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods, due to their strength, versatility, and ability to be tailored for specific applications.

Resins are essential in creating coatings, adhesives, composites, and packaging materials, with their uses continually expanding across various high-tech industries.

Types of Resins Manufactured

1. Epoxy Resin

   • Widely used for coatings, adhesives, and composites.
   • Known for its strong bonding properties and high resistance to chemicals.

2. Polyester Resin

   • Popular in the automotive and marine industries.
   • Typically used for fiberglass-reinforced plastics.

3. Polyurethane Resin

   • Found in foams, coatings, and adhesives.
   • Offers excellent flexibility and durability.

4. Acrylic Resin

   • Commonly used in paints, coatings, and signage.
   • Known for its transparency and UV resistance.

5. Phenolic Resin

   • Often used in automotive and electrical applications.
   • Offers excellent heat resistance and durability.

Key Factors in Choosing a Resin Manufacturer

When selecting a resin manufacturer, several key factors should be considered:

1. Quality Control
   High-quality resins ensure that products are durable and meet specific requirements. Leading manufacturers implement stringent quality control processes to guarantee consistency.

2. Product Range
   Resin manufacturers offering a wide variety of resin types and grades are often more reliable, as they can cater to diverse industrial needs.

3. Innovation
   As industries evolve, the need for specialized resins grows. Manufacturers that invest in R&D to create new formulations or improve existing ones are typically the industry leaders.

4. Sustainability
   With growing environmental concerns, manufacturers that prioritize sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials are becoming more sought after.

5. Supply Chain & Logistics
   Timely delivery is crucial, especially for industries that rely on just-in-time manufacturing. Resin manufacturers with a robust global supply chain can better meet the needs of international clients.

Top Resin Manufacturers Worldwide

Here’s a look at some of the leading resin manufacturers around the globe:

1. BASF (Germany)

   • Established:
   • Products: Epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, and polyester resins.
   • Overview: BASF is one of the largest chemical companies in the world. Their resin division supplies high-performance materials to industries such as automotive, construction, and electronics.

2. Dow Chemical Company (USA)

   • Established:
   • Products: Epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, and acrylic resins.
   • Overview: Dow’s resins are widely used in industrial coatings, adhesives, and composites. They focus on sustainability and providing innovative solutions.

3. Hexion Inc. (USA)

   • Established:
   • Products: Phenolic resins, epoxy resins, and specialty resins.
   • Overview: Hexion is a leader in providing advanced resins for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.

4. Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (Japan)

   • Established:
   • Products: Acrylic resins, epoxy resins, and urethane resins.
   • Overview: Known for their research and innovation in resin formulations, Mitsubishi Chemical offers a broad range of products for coatings, electronics, and automotive sectors.

5. Royal DSM (Netherlands)

   • Established:
   • Products: Epoxy resins, polyester resins, and bio-based resins.
   • Overview: DSM is committed to sustainable innovation and produces resins with high-performance qualities for diverse applications.

6. SABIC (Saudi Arabia)

   • Established:
   • Products: Polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, and other specialty resins.
   • Overview: SABIC is a global leader in the petrochemical industry and produces a wide range of resins for various industrial applications, focusing on performance and cost-efficiency.

7. Huntsman Corporation (USA)

   • Established:
   • Products: Epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, and thermoplastic resins.
   • Overview: Huntsman’s diverse resin portfolio supports industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

8. Arkema (France)

   • Established:
   • Products: Acrylic resins, epoxy resins, and UV-curable resins.
   • Overview: Arkema is known for its innovation in resin technologies, particularly for coatings and adhesives.

9. Wacker Chemie AG (Germany)

   • Established:
   • Products: Silicone resins, acrylic resins, and polymer resins.
   • Overview: Wacker is a leader in silicone-based resins and provides solutions for construction, automotive, and electronics industries.

10. Sunresin (China)

    Established:
    Products: Polyester resins, polyurethane resins, ion exchange resins, adsorption & separation resins, and other industrial resins.

    Overview:
    Sunresin is a leading high-tech enterprise based in Xi'an, China, specializing in the production of ion exchange resins, adsorption & separation resins, and related equipment solutions. With nearly two decades of experience, the company is listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (Stock code: ), ensuring a high level of transparency for its customers. Sunresin manufactures approximately 50,000 m³ of ion exchange resins and adsorbers annually, offering a broad portfolio of more than 200 resin types across 25 product categories.

    Sunresin's products are used across a wide range of industries, including water and wastewater treatment, food processing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, plant extraction, hydrometallurgy, and municipal water treatment. The company is committed to the industrialization of newly developed polymeric resins and the exploration of emerging industries, with over 30 patents both in China and internationally.

    Sunresin's core technologies are protected by independent intellectual property rights, ensuring innovation and quality. It is certified under ISO for quality control, ISO for environmental management, and holds additional certifications including WQA Golden Seal, Kosher, CE, and Halal. The company adheres to strict environmental regulations in its manufacturing processes, maintaining high-quality production standards for its global customer base.

    Headquarters: Sunresin Park, Xi'an, China

Sustainability in Resin Manufacturing

With environmental concerns rising, the resin manufacturing industry is also shifting towards more sustainable practices. Many manufacturers are focusing on the development of bio-based resins, reducing carbon footprints, and enhancing recycling processes. Some key sustainable trends in resin manufacturing include:

• Bio-based Resins: Resins made from renewable sources such as plant oils or sugars.
• Recyclable Resins: Resins designed for easier recycling and lower environmental impact.
• Energy-Efficient Manufacturing: Implementing greener production processes to reduce energy consumption.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Resin Manufacturer

The right resin manufacturer can greatly impact the performance, durability, and sustainability of your products. By considering factors like product range, innovation, and sustainability, industries can find a reliable partner to meet their resin needs. Whether you're in construction, automotive, electronics, or coatings, the global resin industry continues to offer high-quality solutions to support modern manufacturing needs.

If you’re looking for specific resin products, it's worth checking out companies with strong R&D capabilities and sustainability practices to ensure you get the best product for your needs.

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