Advanced Functional Materials

Polymers are long chain, flexible molecules made up of repetitive subunits known as monomers. They can either be synthetic, for instance, plastics, or natural, for example, rubber and silk. Polymers can be light in weight and tough. Applications of polymers include packaging, automobiles, electronics, and medical appliances. In fact, polymers can be engineered with particular properties that may include strength, elasticity, or heat/chemical resistance.

Ceramics are nonmetallic materials that are inorganic and mostly stiff, brittle, and temperature-resistant. Examples of materials include clay, porcelain, and some advanced ceramics that are used to make electronic devices (such as semiconductors), construction (like bricks and tiles), and aerospace (such as heat shields). Ceramics are known for their properties; they exhibit high thermal stability, electrical insulation, and wear resistance.