Polymers in construction
A polymer is a substance which has a molecular structure built up chiefly or completely from a large number of similar units bonded together. In basic terms, polymers are very long molecules typically made up of many thousands of repeat units.
Many synthetic and organic materials are based on polymers, including; plastics, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, adhesives, foams, paints and sealants. Polymer materials account for the highest growth area in construction materials. Well-established applications of polymers in construction include products used for flooring, windows, cladding, pipes, membranes, seals, insulation, and so on. With thousands of commercially available polymers new applications are emerging all the time.
However, the introduction of polymeric materials has brought with it new concerns, particularly relating to their longevity, how they are affected by ageing and weathering, the effects of pollution, environmental and sustainability issues, fire performance, re-use, recycling or disposal at their end of life and so on.
Examples of polymer materials in construction include:
- Epoxy resins: Solid resin, Terrazzo flooring, anchor fixings and adhesives.
- Ethylenetetrafluoroethylene (ETFE): Fabric structures.
- Ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA): Solar panel encapsulants.
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS): Concrete moulds, insulation and packaging.
- Polycarbonate: Lighting housings, fittings in hot water systems and glazing.
- Polyester: FRP Bridge sections, cladding panels, sinks, surfaces and coatings.
- Polyethylene: Foam underlay, damp-proof membranes and coatings.
- Polyisobutylene (PIB): Sealants and waterproof membranes.
- Polymethylmethacrylate / Acyrlic (PMMA): Surfaces and sinks.
- Polypropylene (PP): Sound insulation, and pipes.
- Polyurethane (PU): Sealants and concrete jointing.
- Polyvinylchloride (PVC): Sealants, concrete jointing and fabric structures.
- Rubber: Bridge bearings and flooring.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Acrylic.
- Bitumen binder may delay road surface deterioration.
- Carbon fibre.
- Composites.
- EVA film.
- Fabric structures.
- Glass reinforced plastic GRP.
- Graphene.
- Nylon.
- Plastic.
- Plastic cladding.
- Plastic coating market.
- Polycarbonate plastic.
- Polyethylene.
- Polymeric flooring.
- Polypropylene.
- Polystyrene.
- Polyurethane (PUR).
- Polyvinyl chloride PVC.
- Rubber.
- Sealants.
- Types of materials.
- Wood plastic composites market for construction.
Featured articles and news
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.