1.4 Polymers Part 2

What are elastomers?

Elastomers have links between the monomers which are flexible even when the Thermoplastic has cooled down. This allows the plastic to have rubber properties. Elastomers can generally be recycled.

Name the elastomers

Natural rubber, Butadiene rubber, Neoprene Silicone

How could you make a product using Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs)?

TPEs can be processed using conventional moulding equipment . injection moulding and have the advantage of quicker production times compared to natural or synthetic rubbers.

What are the advantages of Thermoplastic Elastomers?

quicker production times compared to natural or synthetic rubbers.

all waste and scrap material can be recycled.

What are common applications of Thermoplastic Elastomers?

TPEs are used for wire and cable coatings, seals and hoses in the automotive industry, and overmoulding grips on tools, toothbrushes, pens and utensils

What is Liquid Silicon Rubber (LSR)?

LSR is a thermosetting elastomer made of two components, one of which is a catalyst

What are the properties of Liquid Silicon Rubber?

Good flexibility at low temperatures, good weather resistance, lubricating qualities

What is the main advantage of Liquid Silicon Rubber?

LSR can withstand temperatures from -50°C to +250°C, which makes it ideal for use in the automotive industry, for teats on baby bottles and for cooking and medical applications, flexible bakeware and cooking utensils

What are the properties of Butadiene rubber

Tough, excellent wear resistance against friction, electrical insulator

Applications of Butadiene rubber

Tyres, shoe soles, water hoses

Properties of Neoprene

Good thermal resistance, tough, good oil resistance, excellent weather resistance

Applications of Neoprene

Wetsuits, laptop cases, shock absorber seats, door seals

Properties of natural rubber

High tensile strength, good hardness, good cold resistance

Applications of Natural rubber

Car and vehicle tyres, belts, gaskets, footwear

What are biopolymers?

Biopolymers, or biodegradable plastics, are designed to break down under specific conditions and are often derived from renewable sources.

What is Polylactide (PLA) used for?

PLA is a biodegradable plastic used in packaging, gardening products, disposable nappies and medical implants for their ability to dissolve harmlessly into the body over time.

What are PHA's and PHB's?

PHA's are biopolymers better known as Biopol and are made from natural cellulose, while PHB's are a variation of Biopol and are used in packaging and have properties similar to polypropylene.

What are the applications of PHA's

•wide ranging applications in the area of medicine in the form of dispersible fixatives such as film, screws and bone plates and also for slow release medication. While stable in the environment, they will break down in soil.

What is the purpose of oxo-degradable polymers?

Oxo-degradable polymers have additives that promote degradation within five years, breaking down into fine powder under the effects of heat, oxygen and moisture

How do photodegradable polymers work?

Photodegradable polymers break down when exposed to ultraviolet light.

How could you help conventional polymers to break down more easily?

by the addition of an additive such as a 'bio batch' This can help plastics like PE, PP, PVC, PET or PS break down in less than 5 years rather than the hundred+ currently predicted for oil based products.

The downside of using these types of plastics is the degradation and time limit which could, for example, render a chair unsafe to use before its lifetime use is over or packaging of precious objects could dissolve while stored in plastic bags.

What are water-soluble polymers used for?

Water-soluble polymers are used in products like liquid detergent pouches that dissolve in warm water releasing the liquid and removing the need for disposable packaging.

What is the disadvantage of water soluble polymers?

These types of polymer are still more expensive than conventional polymers and this cost is passed on to the consumer which means that only the more environmentally conscious will pay the extra, but prices are falling all the time.

Why are oil-based polymers considered unsustainable?

Oil-based polymers are not renewable, degrade over time, and require virgin materials for recycling.

What are some renewable sources being explored for polymers?

Renewable sources include starch-based foods like potatoes and corn, as well as seaweed and coffee grounds.

What environmental issues are associated with single-use plastics?

Single-use plastics contribute to pollution in oceans and landfills, harming marine life and entering the food chain.

What is the ecological impact of crude oil extraction for plastics?

The extraction and processing of crude oil into polymers are harmful to the environment and contribute to pollution.

What is the significance of biodegradable plastics in waste management?

Biodegradable plastics are designed to break down, reducing the negative environmental impact of conventional plastics.

What are the challenges of using biodegradable plastics?

Biodegradable plastics can be more expensive than conventional plastics, limiting their widespread adoption.

What is the role of additives like 'bio batch' in conventional polymers?

Additives can help conventional polymers break down more easily, reducing their environmental impact.

What is the concern regarding microplastics?

Microplastics have entered the food chain, posing health risks as they accumulate in animals and fish.

What is the main disadvantage of using oxo-degradable plastics?

Oxo-degradable plastics may degrade before their intended use, potentially compromising safety and functionality.

How do biopolymers contribute to sustainable materials?

Biopolymers are derived from renewable resources and are designed to biodegrade, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

What is the impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems?

Plastic waste harms marine life and contributes to pollution, affecting biodiversity and food safety.

What are the benefits of using plant and fiber-based polymers?

Plant and fiber-based polymers are being developed to biodegrade naturally, helping to reduce pollution.