1.9 Biodegradable Polymers Flashcards
Describe biodegradable polymer
Made from finite resources such as crude oil and contains additives that cause it to degrade more quickly than traditional polymers.
Describe photodegradable polymer
Polymer bonds are weakened and the polymer breaks down with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as UV rays from sunlight
Describe oxy-degradable polymer
Polymer turns into a fine powder with exposure to oxygen and is subsequently degradable by the action of micro-organisms
Describe hydro-degradable polymer
Polymer quickly breaks down with exposure to water and is subsequently degradable by the action of micro-organisms
State three properties/characteristics of corn starch polymer
Made from high-starch vegetables such as corn, potatoes, and maize.
Food-safe
Resistant to fats
UV resistance
Printable
Oxy-degradable
Can be extruded to produce a sheet or film
Can be injection moulded and used in 3D printer
State three uses of corn starch polymer
Packaging products
Straws
Vending cups
Disposable cutlery
Bags
Takeaway food containers
State two properties/characteristics of potatopak
Made from potato starch
Compostable
Water-resistant
Heat resistant
Food safe
State two uses of potatopak
Single-use food items such as bowls, cutlery, and food trays
Packaging beads
Bin bags
State two properties/characteristics of biopol
Made from bacteria grown in cultures
Good UV resistance
Does not dissolve in water
Can be moulded, formed, and extruded
Made from bacteria
State two uses of biopol
Packaging products such as film and carrier bags
Vending bags
Nappies
Surgical stitches
Pill coverings
State two properties/characteristics of PLA
Made from corn kernels or cane sugar, fermented to produce lactic acid, then synthesised to produce polylactic acid.
Can be recycled
can be moulded, formed, and extruded
State two uses of PLA
Packaging
Single-use bottles
Carrier bags
Plant pots
Disposable Nappies
Medical sutures
3D printing (commonly used)
State two properties/characteristics of PHA
Made from bacteria grown in cultures
Food safe
Can be formed and moulded like conventional thermoplastics
State two uses of PHA
Packaging
Medical uses such as slow-release medication patches, bone plates, and screws
Film
State two properties/characteristics of lactide
PLA and cellulose based
Compostable
Hydro-degradable
