Polymers Flashcards
What does the word biodegradable mean?
A substance that can be broken down by microorganism
What happens if a material is biodegradable?
They eventually rot away because microbes feed on them and break them down.
What are the benefits for polymers not being biodegradable?
Products last a long time
What are the drawbacks to biodegradable polymers?
Polymers may rot before being thrown away so will not last as long
How do polymers get recycled?
They get melted and broken down to make new polymers
Disadvantages of throwing away polymers
They last for many years and we are running out of landfill sites
Disadvantages of burning polymers
When burning polymers they release toxic gases which add pollutants to the air
What are the advantages to biodegradable polymers?
They will rot away in landfill sites
What are the benefits to recycling polymers?
They can be made in to new objects by being melted or broken down
