Introduction to polymers, the definition of plastics and polymers. Polymer classification, thermoplastic, thermosetting, and elastomers. Polymer microstructure, amorphous and crystalline, solid, liquid and gas. The effects of thermal changes on polymers. Length and molecular weight of the polymer. Mechanical properties of polymers, elastic properties, viscous flow, viscoelasticity. Creep, toughness and impact toughness. Additives: amplifiers, fillers and colors. Chemical and physical properties, melting index. Resistance of plastic to natural conditions and time durability. Chemical stability, permeability. Electrical properties, optical properties, non-flammability, plastic identification. Thermoplastic materials for general purpose, polyethylene, polyethylene copolymers, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, alloys and blends. Thermoplastic materials for engineering applications, polyamides, polyoxymethylene, thermoplastic polyester, polycarbonate, acrylic, fluoropolymers, high quality thermoplastics. Thermoset materials. Types of thermoset, properties and their application. Phenols, amino plastics, polyester thermosets, unsaturated polyester, epoxides, thermoset polyamides, polyurethanes. Elastomers (rubber), aliphatic elastomeric set. Thermoplastic elastomers, silicones. Application of polymers.