Polymer

Hydroxyl Groups (–OH)
Hydroxyl groups greatly improve polymer hydrophilic properties by allowing the material to dissolve better in water and polar solvents. These groups also bring important benefits to adhesive components, coating materials, and biomedical hydrogel applications. They enable additional chemical modifications involving esterification or etherification reactions that modify the polymer structure's mechanical properties and degradation behavior.

Thiol Groups (–SH)
Thiol groups are sulfur-containing functionalities known for their ability to form disulfide bonds or bind strongly to metals. These groups are often used in the development of responsive or self-healing materials, as well as in surface modification techniques where strong metal-polymer interactions are required. Thiol-functionalized polymers are valuable in nanotechnology and sensor design.

Epoxy, Aldehyde, and Isocyanate Groups
These highly reactive groups are often used for forming crosslinked polymer networks or introducing functional surfaces. Epoxy groups can react with amines or hydroxyls, while isocyanates are reactive with alcohols and amines, forming urethane or urea linkages. Aldehydes, on the other hand, allow for Schiff base formation with primary amines. These reactions are key in creating durable coatings, adhesives, and structural materials.