Have you ever stopped to think about what modernity would be without the presence of synthetic polymers? To be more precise, imagine a car without the comfort inside? Or how difficult would it be to write with bird feathers, or even wear clothes made from sheep's wool? Not to mention the computer, which is the greatest example of technological advancement.
Well, know that all the comfort we enjoy today depends on the presence of polymers in our daily lives. The panels, upholstery and accessories that make up luxury cars are made from this class of organic compounds: synthetic polymers. And more: the pen with which we write, the clothes made with the most varied materials (nylon, ryon), the structure of computers (keyboard, mouse, CPU), in short, several objects that are part of modern life contain some type of polymer in their composition synthetic.
It can be said that in more developed countries, more than 100 kilos of synthetic polymers are spent annually per inhabitant, that is, they are essential compounds for our survival. All of this would be beneficial were it not for the danger posed by the increased use of polymers. They are a great threat to humanity due to incorrect disposal: rivers, seas and areas greens receive hundreds of these materials daily that have the property of not being biodegradable. Thus, they accumulate in nature and contaminated the environment.
In order to continue enjoying the benefits of polymers, we need to be aware of the dangers of incorrect disposal, so that pollution does not account for our actions. The presence of polymers can only be for our good!
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By Líria Alves
Graduated in Chemistry
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Definition of polymers
Polymers and Pollution
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SOUZA, Líria Alves de. "Use of Synthetic Polymers"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/quimica/utilizacao-dos-polimeros-sinteticos.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
Chemistry
Synthetic Substances, methylene-dimethoxy- methamphetamine, strongly psychoactive substance, ecstasy, MDMA, saccharin, cyclamate, plastics, acrylic, detergents, natural rubber, organic rubbers, synthetic rubber, hydrocarbons synthetics, pulley