Polymers And Their Uses

Question 0

What is nylon used for?

Answer 0

Making clothes

Question 1

Name the 4 different types of polymer and their uses

Answer 1

Strong, rigid - high density polythene, milk bottles
Light stretchable - plastic bags
PVC - strong and durable, rigid (window frames) or stretchy (synthetic leather)
Polystyrene foam - packaging, thermal plastic cups

Question 2

What are the advantages of coating nylon with polyurethane?

Answer 2

Waterproof

Keeps out UV light

Question 3

What are the disadvantages of coating nylon with polyurethane?

Answer 3

Doesn’t let water vapour pass through - sweat condenses on inside

Question 4

Why is GORE-TEX used for coats?

How does it work?

Answer 4

Waterproof and breathable.
A layer of expanded PTFE (plastic) is laminated onto fabric.
Has tint holes that let it breath, but holes too small yo let in water. PTFE repels water.

Question 5

What is the problem with disposing of polymers?

What should we do?

Answer 5

Not biodegradable - fill up landfill.
If burnt release toxic fumes.
Need to reuse and recycle.
Chemists trying to develop biodegradable plastics