Polymer Properties and Uses

HSC Chemistry Flashcards for Polymers

LDPE Structure (Low-density polyethene)

highly amorphous

LDPE Properties (Low-density polyethene)

low density
flexible
transparent

LDPE Uses (Low-density polyethene)

plastic shopping bags

squeeze bottles

HDPE Structure (High-density polyethene)

highly crystalline

HDPE Properties (High-density polyethene)

rigid
opaque
resistant to solvents

HDPE Uses (High-density polyethene)

hard hats
rubbish bins

Teflon Structure (Polytetrafluoroethylene)

non-polar
highly electronegative

Teflon Properties (Polytetrafluoroethylene)

high melting point
non-stick
waterproof

Teflon Uses (Polytetrafluoroethylene)

non-stick frying pans
waterproof fabric

PVC Structure (Polychloroethene)

strong dipole-dipole
can be plasticised/unplasticised

PVC Properties (Polychloroethene)

strong
high melting point
uPVC: rigid and durable
PVC: flexible

PVC Uses (Polychloroethene)

water pipes
wire covering
raincoats
floor tiles

Polystyrene Structure

bulky side group
chains are unable to stack tightly
can be rigid or foam

Polystyrene Properties

low density
hard and brittle
foam: good insulator

Polystyrene Uses

DVD cases
airplane parts
food packaging
insulating beads