Polymers

Polymers

1. Many monomers join together to make a polymer

   • They can be used for recyclable plastic

2. Thermosoftening Polymer

   • When this type of polymer is heated, the chains slide past each other and the polymer becomes soft because the forces are overcome.
     • It can be reheated

3. Uses

   • Plastic Bottles
   • Buckets
   • Most plastic items

4. LDPE (Low Density Polyethene)

   • High pressure and a little oxygen can form LDPE from many monomers. The polymer chains formed are branched and cannot pack closely together.

5. HDPE (High Density Polyethene)

   • Using a catalyst at 50oC and slightly raised pressure can form HDPE from many monomers. The polymer chains are less branched and can pack closely together.