Thermoplastics Flashcards
What are the different types of Thermoplastics?
HDPE (High density Polyethene) LDPE (Low density Polyethene) PP (Polypropylene) HIPS (High impact Polystyrene) Polyamide (Nylon) PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Polymethyl Methacrylate (Acrylic)
What is High Density Polyethene?
Stiff, strong plastic
Softens at 120-130 degrees
What is Low Density Polyethene?
Weaker, softer, more flexible than HDPE
Softens at 85 degrees
What is the use of HDPE?
Pipes and bowls
Milk crates
Buckets
What is the use of LDPE?
Packaging Film Carrier bags Toys Squeezy detergent bottle
What is Polypropylene?
High impact strength
Softens at 150 degrees
Can be flexed many times without breaking
What are the uses of Polypropylene?
Bottle crates and boxes Medical equipment and syringes Food containers Nets Storage
What is High Impact Polystyrene?
Light but strong
Widely available in sheets
Softens at 95 degrees
What are the uses of HIPS?
Vacuum forming
School project work
What is Polyamide (Nylon)?
Hard material
Resistance to wear and tear
Solid Nylon has low friction qualities and high melting point
What are the uses of Polyamide (Nylon)?
Curtain rail fittings Combs Hinges Bearings Clothes Gear wheels
What is Rigid PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)?
Stiff and hard wearing
Plasticiser can be added for more rubbery, softer material
What are the uses of Rigid PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)?
Air and water pipes
Chemical tanks
Shoe soles
Floor and wall coverings
What is Polymethyl-Methacrylate (Acrylic)?
Trade name = perspex
Glass like transparency or opaque
Can be coloured with pigments
Hard wearing but can shatter if treated roughly
What are the uses of Acrylic?
Display signs
Baths
Roof lights
Machine Guards
