Modern Materials: Polymers

Question 1

Corn starch polymers

Answer 1

• Corn starch polymers are plastics that are made from vegetable starches and are sustainable.
• These smart polymers are biodegradable if composted and are often used for animal feed when disposed of.
• Corn starch polymers readily decompose and are good for the environment and are commonly used in packaging and polymer moulding

Question 2

Polylactic acid (PLA)

Answer 2

• These biodegradable polymers are smooth or textured and available in a range of colours.
• These polymers are non-toxic, easily moulded and widely used.
• Commonly used for bottles, food and drink packaging, phone cases and 3D printer filaments

Question 3

Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB, Biopol)

Answer 3

• These biodegradable polymers are smooth or textured and available in a range of colours.
• These polymers are quite brittle, stable, strong and moulded easily.
• They have limited chemical resistance.
• Commonly used for bottles, disposable food items and household items