Polymers and organic materials are of increasing global importance with applications in energy, medicine and electronics. This module will highlight how functional organic materials such as high-performance polymers, crosslinked polymers, composites, and porous materials can be designed for specific applications. The module will also explain how advanced characterisation methods (including size exclusion chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, gas sorption, tensile measurement, and microscopy) are used in the development of modern materials. Additionally, this module will introduce polymers, outlining aspects of polymer synthesis, properties, and characterisation. Some of the history, importance, and current issues of polymeric materials – such as sustainability – will be discussed to provide an understanding of the wider context. CHEM204 will be useful to chemists who wish to develop a deeper understanding of how organic compounds can be designed to provide functional materials.