3- Thermoplastics

Question 1

Biodegradable

Answer 1

A material, normally based on animal or vegetable matter, which can be broken down by other living organisms into harmless waste.

Question 2

Bioplastics

Answer 2

Plastics that have been made using plant or animal material. This makes them biodegradable.

Question 3

Top five reads why plastics are so common in the packaging world:

Answer 3

Tough. Lightweight. Clear so that the consumer can see the product. Economical as it is easy to make and easily available. And it is aesthetically useful as it can be made to look good and can be printed on.

Question 4

See page 26 for table of main plastics used in packaging

Answer 4

See page 26

Question 5

Vacuum forming

Answer 5

A process in which simple hollow shapes are created by sucking air from underneath a heated thermoplastic sheet draped over a mould.

Question 6

Injection moulding

Answer 6

A process in which hot liquid plastic is injected by force into a mould.