Plastics

Question 1

Describe thermoplastics

Answer 1

A plastic that becomes malleable enough when heated to be molded or remolded and that hardens
(3/4 plastics in this category)
Usually have a recycling code

Question 2

Describe thermosetting plastic

Answer 2

A plastic that remains permanently set even when heated. Made by adding monomers to a mold, once hardened cannot be changed. (Melamine and polyesters) - Can’t be recycled in Quebec

Question 3

Describe the degradation process of plastic

Answer 3

It is a very slow process but irreversible

Question 4

What are signs of degradation of plastic

Answer 4

• Cracking

- Change in colour (bc of sun)

Question 5

What types of degradation affect plastics?

Answer 5

• Penetration of liquid
• Oxidation
• Ultraviolet rays

Question 6

How to fix the penetration of liquid problem

Answer 6

Add waterproof coating

Question 7

How to fix the oxidation problem

Answer 7

Add antioxidants (carbon black)

Question 8

How to fix the ultraviolet rays problem

Answer 8

Add dark pigment to absorb UV rays