Year 10, Test 1 Flashcards
How much plastic is produced each year?
Approximately 300 million tonnes
This figure highlights the global scale of plastic production.
What is a key characteristic of plastic production?
Relatively inexpensive to produce
This affordability contributes to widespread use in various industries.
What is a notable property of plastic?
Very versatile
Plastic can be molded into different shapes and used in a variety of applications.
What are polymers mostly made of?
Mostly synthetic materials
Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating structural units.
From what resources are most synthetic polymers derived?
Finite resources such as coal, natural gases, and crude oil
These resources are non-renewable and contribute to environmental concerns.
What is an alternative to synthetic polymers?
More renewable and sustainable materials
These alternatives aim to reduce dependency on finite resources.
What is a key characteristic of thermoplastics?
Can be repeatedly heated and remoulded
Thermoplastics can be reshaped multiple times without significant degradation.
What is a disadvantage of thermoplastics?
Not suitable for use in areas of heat or UV sensitivity
This limits their application in certain environments.
What is one advantage of thermoplastics regarding their surface?
Good surface finish
This makes them aesthetically pleasing for various applications.
Can thermoplastics be recycled?
Yes
Recycling thermoplastics helps reduce waste and environmental impact.
What phenomenon occurs when thermoplastics are reheated?
Plastic memory
This means they attempt to return to their original shape when reheated.
What is melamine formaldehyde known for?
Good insulation and heat resistance
It is a type of thermoset plastic.
What are the key properties of urea formaldehyde?
High electrical insulation, good heat resistance
Urea formaldehyde is another type of thermoset.
What is polyester resin primarily used for?
Bonding agent in glass and reinforced plastics
It is a versatile thermoset plastic.
What is a key advantage of thermosets?
Able to withstand high temperatures
This makes them suitable for demanding applications.
What happens to thermosets when they are solid?
Waterproof
This property enhances their utility in various environments.
What is one of the properties of thermosets regarding electrical insulation?
Good electrical insulator
This makes thermosets useful in electrical applications.
Can thermosets be remoulded?
No
Once set, thermosets cannot be reshaped.
What is extrusion in plastic manufacturing?
Creating objects with a cross-section profile
This process is used for making continuous shapes.
What does injection moulding involve?
Injecting heated plastic into a mould
This allows for the production of complex shapes.
What is vacuum forming?
Sheet of softened plastic forced onto a mould
This technique is often used for creating packaging and containers.
What are ferrous metals?
Metals that can rust and contain iron
Ferrous metals are prone to corrosion when exposed to moisture.