Polymer Enhancement

Question 1

Lubricants

Answer 1

Reduces the viscosity of the molten polymer, making it less sticky and allowing more intricate shapes to be formed. Lubricants also allow the moulding temperature to be lowered saving energy.

Question 2

Thermal antioxidants

Answer 2

Prevent the polymer oxidising or discolouring due to excessive heat during processing

Question 3

Pigments

Answer 3

Tiny particles that are mixed into the polymer in its molten state to give colour to the final processed product

Question 4

Antistatics

Answer 4

Reduce the likelihood of the polymer building up static charge

Question 5

Flame retardants

Answer 5

Reduce the likelihood of combustion or the spread of fire

Question 6

Plasticisers

Answer 6

Allow plastics to become less hard and brittle at normal temperature use. They can also also help in processing because they allow polymers to be easily formed at higher temperatures.

Question 7

Fillers

Answer 7

Sawdust and wood flower provide bulk to the product meaning that less polymer is required.

Question 8

Biodegradable plasticisers

Answer 8

Please make the polymer more flexible softer and easier to breakdown which means faster degradation time

Question 9

Antioxidants

Answer 9

Reduce the mental deterioration of the polymer from exposure to oxygen in the air.

Also help prevent increased brittleness surface cracks and pigment discolouration

Question 10

Uv stabilisers

Answer 10

Prevent the polymer chains being broken down by sunlight. UV attack causes colour loss and brittleness.