What is the Difference Between TG and TM Polymers?

The main difference between Tg and Tm polymers lies in the temperature at which their physical properties change and the phase of matter they undergo during these changes. Here are some key differences between Tg and Tm polymers:

1. Definition: Tg (glass transition temperature) refers to the temperature at which an amorphous polymer converts from a glassy state to a rubbery state. Tm (melting temperature) refers to the temperature at which a crystalline polymer converts from a solid state to a liquid/crystalline state.
2. Phase of Matter: During the glass transition, the phase of matter changes from solid to rubbery state, while during melting, the phase of matter changes from solid to liquid/crystalline.
3. Molecular Arrangement: Amorphous polymers experience glass transition, while both amorphous and semi-crystalline polymers can experience melting.
4. Property: Polymers with low Tg are flexible and soft, while those with high Tg are hard and brittle.
5. Temperature Range: Tg typically ranges below room temperature, while Tm ranges from room temperature to above.

In summary, Tg and Tm polymers differ in the temperature at which their physical properties change and the phase of matter they undergo during these changes. Tg polymers experience a glass transition from a solid to a rubbery state, while Tm polymers undergo melting from a solid to a liquid/crystalline state.

Comparative Table: TG vs TM Polymers

The main difference between TG and TM polymers lies in their properties and the transitions they undergo at specific temperatures. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between TG and TM polymers:

Tg polymers are amorphous and undergo a glass transition temperature, where their hard, glassy state converts into a rubbery state. In contrast, Tm polymers are either amorphous or semi-crystalline and undergo a melting temperature, where their solid state converts into a liquid or crystalline state.