You're a chemical engineer who wants to innovate in polymers. What are the best ways to get started?

1 Identify a problem or need

The first step to innovate in polymers is to identify a problem or need that can be solved or met by using polymers. For example, you might want to design a polymer that is biodegradable, recyclable, or responsive to stimuli. Or you might want to enhance a polymer's strength, durability, or conductivity. You can use various sources of inspiration, such as literature reviews, market research, customer feedback, or your own experience and curiosity.

2 Explore the polymer chemistry

The next step is to explore the polymer chemistry that can address the problem or need. You need to understand the structure, properties, and synthesis of different types of polymers, such as thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, or biopolymers. You also need to consider the factors that affect the polymerization process, such as catalysts, initiators, monomers, solvents, and reaction conditions. You can use software tools, such as Polymer Genome or PolyXplore, to help you with polymer design and simulation.

3 Experiment and test

The third step is to experiment and test your polymer ideas in the laboratory. You need to prepare the polymer samples, either by using existing methods or developing new ones. You also need to characterize the polymer samples, using techniques such as spectroscopy, microscopy, rheology, or mechanical testing. You need to evaluate the polymer's performance, functionality, and compatibility with other materials and processes. You need to record and analyze the data, and compare the results with your expectations and objectives.

4 Iterate and optimize

The fourth step is to iterate and optimize your polymer innovation. You need to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your polymer, and make adjustments accordingly. You might need to change the polymer chemistry, synthesis method, or processing parameters. You might also need to scale up the production, or test the polymer in different environments or applications. You need to repeat the experiment and test cycle until you achieve the desired outcomes and specifications.

5 Communicate and collaborate

The fifth step is to communicate and collaborate with others in the polymer field. You need to share your findings and insights, and get feedback and suggestions from peers, mentors, experts, or potential users. You can use various platforms, such as journals, conferences, webinars, or social media, to disseminate your work and network with others. You can also seek opportunities to partner with other researchers, organizations, or industries, to access resources, funding, or markets for your polymer innovation.

6 Learn and grow

The sixth step is to learn and grow as a polymer innovator. You need to keep up with the latest trends and developments in the polymer field, and explore new areas of interest or challenge. You need to reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses, and seek ways to improve your skills and knowledge. You need to embrace failures and setbacks, and learn from them. You need to be curious, creative, and persistent, and enjoy the process of polymer innovation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?