1. Polymers- uses and properties

Question 1

Package fatty foods/ Oily foods (PVC)

Answer 1

Resistant to chemical attack

Question 2

Credit cards, electrical conduit (PVC)

Answer 2

Large chloride atoms make it hard, inflexible

Question 3

Flexible tubing, gloves (PVC)

Answer 3

Plastiser + PVC makes it more flexible.

Question 4

Guttering, outdoor pipes (PVC)

Answer 4

UV absorber prevents UV decomposition in sunlight

Question 5

Hot water pipes (PVC)

Answer 5

Heat stabiliser prevents hot- decomposition

Question 6

Food packaging, medical care products, drinking glasses, disposable items (Crystal Polystyrene)

Answer 6

Versatile thermoplastic. Clear amorphous polymer with high stiffness and good electrical insulation.

Question 7

Protective layer in packaging, Protective packaging (Expanded Polystyrene)

Answer 7

White, good heat and sound insulation.

Question 8

What causes Amorphous (Non-crystalline) LDPE?

Answer 8

• Irregular packing of polymer chains due to branching.

- Plastics are transparent as there is less scattering of light.

Question 9

What causes crystalline (HDPE)?

Answer 9

• Polymer chains are packed together closely (Held together by dispersion forces)
• Little to no side branches.
• Crystalline regions scatter and refract light so polymers are transcluscent or white.