Polymers

Question 1

Properties of polymers

Answer 1

• Coloured
• Self finishing
• Shaped - can be formed into anything
• Formed in a number of ways
• Cost is reasonable
• Versatile working properties

Question 2

Thermoforming polymers

Answer 2

These plastics can be re - heated and therefore shaped in various ways.

Pros - highly recycable, high impact, chemical resistant

Cons - Generally more expensive than thermoset, can melt if heated

Question 3

Thermoforming polymers examples

Answer 3

• High - impact polystyrene - tough, low cost, use din shelves
• Acrylic - resistant in high temp, used in lenses and nails
• Polypropylene - Tough, heat resistant, used in tape and carpets

Question 4

Thermosetting polymers

Answer 4

Once ‘set’ these plastics cannot be reheated to soften shape and mould, the bond between the molecules is very strong.

• Pros - Highly flexable design, cost effective, more resistant to high temperatures than thermoplastics

Cons - Cannot be recycled, more difficult to surface finish

Question 5

Thermosetting polymers examples

Answer 5

• Epoxy Resin - Heat resistant, corrosion resistant and used in construction
• Polyester resin - Low cost, water resistant, used in furniture finishing
• Phenol Formaldehyde - Heat/flame resistant, little smoke while burning, used in billard bills

Question 6

Polymer additives

Answer 6

• Plasticisers - soft and flexible
• Pigments - changes colour
• Stabilisers - withsatnd UV light damage
• Fillers - increase the bulk, improve its impact resistance