Polymers Flashcards
Why are polyalkenes inert/unreactive and not biodegradable
Due to the strong C-C and C-H bonds And the non-polar nature of the bonds so can’t be attacked by nucleophiles
What are the two types of condensation polymers
Polyamide or polyester
Why are polyesters and polyamides biodegradable
They can be broken down by hydrolysis
What type of intermolecular forces are there inbetween polyamides
Hydrogen bonding
Dipole dipole
VDW
What type of intermolecular forces are there inbetween polyesters
Van der waals
Dipole dipole
What is a use of terylene
Ship sails
What is a use of Nylon 6,6
Parachutes
What is a use of Kevlar
Bulletproof vests
Why are many condensation polymers biodegradable
They contain a polar C=O bond which means their chains can be attacked and broken down by nucleophiles like water and OH-
Why are addition polymers not biodegradable
Their chains are made of strong nonpolar C-C bonds which cannot be attacked and broken by nucleophiles
What are advantages of recycling
- reduces need for landfill sites
- reduces harmful chemicals produced when burning/decomposing in landfill
- cheaper
What are disadvantages of recycling
- expensive and difficult
- some plastics are not recyclable
- contamination
What are the 3 ways of disposing polymers
- Landfill
- incineration
- recycling
What are the disadvantages of incineration?
- toxins can be released
- greenhouse gases will be emitted
