Polymer backbone

A **polymer backbone** is the primary linear chain of atoms that constitutes the core structural framework of a polymer molecule[4][7]. The backbone is formed by repeating units (monomers) covalently bonded in a regular or semi-regular sequence, and its composition—typically carbon (in organic polymers), but also silicon (polysiloxanes), oxygen, nitrogen, etc.—is a key determinant of the physical and chemical properties of the polymer[2][5]. The nature and flexibility of the backbone (e.g., all-carbon vs. heteroatom-containing) dictate properties such as rigidity, thermal transitions, and reactivity[4][1]. Changing the backbone structure or chemistry is a major means by which polymers with diverse or novel material properties are designed[4]. The term is not specific to biology and applies equally to synthetic and natural polymers; it is not a drug target, receptor, or clinical biomarker[7][2][5].

Other names

main chain (polymer)polymer main chainbackbone chain