C1 - Designer polymers Flashcards
What is the main disadvantage to nylon?
It does not allow water vapour out therefore the wearer becomes wet and cold inside.
What is the advantage to gore-tex?
It allows sweat to pass through but not rainwater.
Why does gore-tex repel water?
It is hydrophobic.
Why are the size of pores in expanded PTFE membranes significant?
This is because the pores are too small for water to pass through but big enough to allow water vapor out.
What does bio-degradable mean?
Can be decomposed and decayed naturally.
What are the problems associated with non-biodegradable polymers?
- they are difficult to dispose of
- they last a long time in landfill sites
How are polymers disposed of?
- in landfill sites
- by burning
- by recycling
What are the atoms in monomers held together by?
Covalent bonds.
Why are some polymers easily stretched and others rigid?
This is because some have weak intermolecular forces therefore they stretch but others have strong intermolecular forces (cross links) and can’t be stretched.
