Polymers and their uses

Question 1

What are the properties and uses for the polymer poly(ethene)

Answer 1

Polythene
Properties = flexible, cheap, good insulator,
Uses = Plastic bags, plastic bottles, cling film, polytunnels

Question 2

What are the properties and uses for the polymer poly(propene)

Answer 2

Polypropylene
Properties= Flexible, does not shatter
Uses = Buckets and bowls, crates, ropes, carpets

Question 3

What are the properties and uses for the polymer poly(chloroethene)

Answer 3

Polyvinyl chloride, PVC
Properties = tough, good insulator, can be made hard or flexible
Uses = Window frames, gutters, pipes, insulation for electrical wires

Question 4

What are the properties and uses for the polymer poly(tetrafluoroethene)

Answer 4

PTFE, Teflon
properties = tough and slippery
Uses = non stick coating for frying pans, burette taps, stain proof clothing

Question 5

What is the problem with polymers

Answer 5

They are not biodegradable

Question 6

Why shouldn’t plastics be incinerated

Answer 6

They produce CO2, which is toxic

Question 7

How can we reduce landfill

Answer 7

Reduce uses,
Reuse products,

Question 8

What is the process for recycling polymers

Answer 8

Collect waste. Sort waste into different polymers, Dispose stuff which can’t be recycled, Clean, grind into chippings, Purify, melt

Question 9

Why are codes used on certain plastic products

Answer 9

Makes it easier to identify which polymers are in what products

Question 10

How can PVC be made softer

Answer 10

You can include Plasticisers in its manufactory