G1-5 SCL Flashcards

1
Q

A manufacturer needs polyethylene (PE) for a flexible packaging application. Which type is most suitable and why?

A

LDPE, due to its branched structure that provides flexibility and lower density.

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2
Q

A car manufacturer needs a plastic that resists chemical attacks and abrasion for fuel tanks. Which type of polyethylene should be used?

A

HMW-HDPE or UHMWPE for their toughness and chemical resistance.

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3
Q

Why is LDPE not suitable for structural applications compared to HDPE?

A

LDPE’s branched structure leads to lower crystallinity, reducing its strength and rigidity compared to HDPE’s linear chains.

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4
Q

How does the polymerization process affect the properties of different types of Polyethylene?

A

High-pressure polymerization creates branched structures (e.g., LDPE), making it less dense, whereas low-pressure processes with catalysts yield linear chains (HDPE), increasing strength and density.

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5
Q

What makes Polypropylene (PP) suitable for medical applications?

A

High chemical resistance, sterilizability, and rigidity.

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6
Q

A company needs a material for outdoor chairs that resists moisture but is cost-effective. Which polymer would you recommend?

A

Polypropylene PP due to its excellent moisture resistance and affordability.

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7
Q

A lab wants to sterilize its plastic equipment repeatedly without deformation. Which polymer is suitable?

A

Polypropylene PP, as it can withstand high sterilization temperatures.

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8
Q

Compare Polypropylene PP and Polyethylene PE in terms of chemical resistance and flexibility

A

Polypropylene PP has better chemical resistance but is less flexible than LDPE or VLDPE due to its higher rigidity and crystallinity.

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9
Q

Why is UV stabilization important for Polypropylene PP in outdoor applications?

A

Polypropylene PP degrades under UV light, leading to brittleness and loss of strength over time.

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10
Q

What makes PVC flexible or rigid?

A

Addition of plasticizers makes it flexible; without them, it remains rigid

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11
Q

What happens when PVC decomposes?

A

It releases hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas.

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12
Q

A construction company requires a material for plumbing pipes that resists weathering. Which polymer should they use?

A

Rigid PVC, due to its durability and weather resistance.

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13
Q

An electric wire manufacturer needs a covering material with good dielectric properties and flexibility. Which polymer is suitable?

A

Flexible PVC, as it combines flexibility with electrical insulation.

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14
Q

Why does PVC have limited thermal capability despite being widely used?

A

PVC begins to decompose at relatively low temperatures, evolving HCl, which limits its use in high-temperature applications.

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15
Q

Analyze the environmental impact of PVC compared to PET.

A

PVC releases toxic gases (HCl) upon decomposition and is harder to recycle, while PET is easier to recycle but less durable in some applications.

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16
Q

What polymerization method is used for Polystyrene?

A

Free radical addition polymerization.

17
Q

What property makes Polystyrene unsuitable for high-temperature applications?

A

Poor thermal stability.
Cannot withstand prolonged heat above 65C

18
Q

Why is Polystyrene widely used for packaging?

A

Its low cost, good moldability, and light weight.

19
Q

A food company needs clear plastic for disposable containers. Which polymer should they use?

A

Polystyrene due to its optical clarity and low cost.

20
Q

A toy manufacturer needs a lightweight, low-cost plastic. Which polymer should they use?

A

Polystyrene PS, as it is low cost, lightweight and moldable.

21
Q

Why is Polystyrene considered unsuitable for eco-friendly applications?

A

Polystyrene is non-biodegradable and has poor recyclability, contributing to environmental waste.

22
Q

How would you address the flammability issue in Polystyrene applications?

A

By using flame-retardant additives or switching to alternative polymers for fire-prone applications.

23
Q

What is the primary advantage of PMMA over glass?

A

It is lightweight, good resistance to weather and shatter-resistant.

24
Q

What makes PMMA suitable for optical applications?

A

Outstanding optical clarity and UV resistance.

25
Q

Which polymer would you recommend for aircraft windshields?

A

PMMA, due to its lightweight, impact resistance, excellent weather and UV resitance and transparency.

26
Q

An advertiser needs durable, weather-resistant signs. Which polymer should they use?

A

PMMA for its UV resistance and optical clarity.

27
Q

Why is PMMA not suitable for high-temperature applications?

A

PMMA has a limited continuous service temperature of 93°C, making it unsuitable for prolonged exposure to high heat.

28
Q

Analyze the trade-off between PMMA’s rigidity and flexibility in various applications.

A

While PMMA’s rigidity provides structural stability, its lack of flexibility can limit use in applications requiring high impact absorption

29
Q

What is a unique feature of Polycarbonate compared to other thermoplastics?

A

It has high impact strength and transparency.

30
Q

List two common applications of Polycarbonate.

A

Safety helmets and optical lenses.

31
Q

Which polymer would you recommend for safety helmets that require both high impact resistance and lightweight properties?

A

Polycarbonate (PC), because of its high impact strength and low density.

32
Q

An electronics manufacturer needs a material for transparent housing that must resist heat and electrical currents. Which polymer should they choose?

A

Polycarbonate, due to its good electrical insulation and high-temperature resistance.

33
Q

Why does Polycarbonate require UV stabilization for outdoor use?

A

Polycarbonate is prone to degradation and yellowing when exposed to UV light, requiring stabilizers to maintain durability and transparency.

34
Q

Compare Polycarbonate and Acrylic (PMMA) in terms of impact resistance and optical clarity.

A

Polycarbonate has superior impact resistance, making it suitable for safety applications, but PMMA provides better optical clarity at a lower cost.