Polymers

Polymers

1. Properties

   • Depend on the monomer used
   • Depend on the temperature made at
   • Depend on the catalyst used
   • E.g. LDPE is used to make carrier bags as it is flexible
   • E.g. HDPE is used to make plastic bottles as it holds shape

2. Thermo-setting Polymers

   • Individual polymer chains joined by cross links
   • Do not melt when heated
   • Strong intermolecular forces

3. Thermo-softening Polymers

   • Weak intermolecular forces
   • Individual polymer chains
   • Melts when heated

4. Made from many smaller molecules named monomers which join together.

   • Monomers such as alkenes are ideal as they are unsaturated so have a double bond which is broken to form a chain to create the polymer.

5. Uses of Polymers

   • New packaging materials
   • Waterproof coatings
   • fillings for teeth
   • smart materials (Shape memory)

6. Problems with Polymers

   • Not biodegradable
   • Quickly fill up landfill sites
   • Possible to include substances such as cornstarch to cause to polymer to break down quicker
   • Can be recycled but this is an expensive process.