If all of the hydrogens of polyethylene are replaced by fluorines, the result is Teflon, a tough and unreactive material widely used for laboratory tubing.

Orlon is a well-known artificial fiber, and polystyrene is a hard and clear plastic that even can be used for furniture and walls.

Man was once heavily dependent on natural polymers-cellulose, wool, and rubber. It now is possible to be fully equipped to meet the world with no natural polymers about one except one's own skin.