Polymers in depth. Flashcards
Ways to enhance polymers.
Pigment is added to the plastics in its molten state to give it colour and UV stabilisers are added to stop the polymer chain being broken down when exposed to sunlight. UV attack causes polymers to become brittle and lose colour.
Problems with common polymers.
Most polymers are made from non-renewable resources such as crude oil. These do not naturally break down.
Types of biodegradable polymers.
Oxy-degradable= polymer breaks down into a fine powder when exposed to oxygen. This material can be ‘programmed’ during manufacturing to set the decay period from a few months to a few years.
Photo-degradable= the polymer bonds are weakened by exposure to UV light.
Hydro-degradable= the polymer breaks down with exposure to water and micro organisms. These tend to degrade quickly.
