Materials - Plastics

Question 1

What is a theromoplastic?

Answer 1

A plastic that can be melted to change its shape

Question 2

What is a thermoset?

Answer 2

A plastic that, once melted it can’t be reversed and re -shaped

Question 3

What are some thermoplastics?

Answer 3

STIFF,HARD,RIGID:
HIPS - High impacts, used for vacuum forming
ABS - Used for tool boxes, plugs and casing
HDPE - High density, milk bottles

FLEXIBLE,SOFT:
LDPE - Low density, flexible squeeze bottle
PET - Gas proof

BOTH:
PP - Used for buckets and chairs
PVC - Durable, resistant to corrosion, used for pipes, gutters

Question 4

What are some thermosets?

Answer 4

Urea formaldehyde - Limited colours, heat resistant and a very good insulator

Epoxy resin - Two part solution that sets hard after heating to a certain point

Question 5

What plastic would be used for the handle of a kettle and why?

Answer 5

• LDPE
• Heat resistant
• Colour options
• LDPE is a thermal and electrical insulator
• Can easily be moulded into an ergonomic shape
• Cost effective