Biotechnology Flashcards
What are the ethical arguments against genetic engineering?
Messing with nature- untested effects on food chain etc
What is biotechnology?
Genetic engineering in relation to woods- altering genes to provide quicker growing trees or to supply wood that resists wear, rot or infestation
What effects doing biotechnology have on the paper and board industry?
Reduction of toxic chemicals in wood pulp production
Reduce polymer like material in tree called LIGNIN this will result in different natural colouring to tree
What are the advantages and disadvantages of biotechnology?
Advantages: resistance to disease, quicker growth, better forest management
Disadvantages: long term effects unknown, escape of modern genes, greater water demand
what is a biodegradable polymer?
Derived from renewable raw materials, micro organisms in environment break down structure of polymer= less harmful to environment
What are the advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable polymers?
Advantages: fully degradable, reduction of harmful effects (global warming)
Disadvantages: degradation contributes to global warming, more expensive, not as energy efficient
What are biodegradable polymers used for?
Packaging, paper coatings, medical uses etc
Describe biopol
Biodegradable, derived from natural raw materials, can be mass produced through fermentation, bacteria of sugars & carbohydrates are collected & refined polymer is extracted
What are plasticizers?
Improve the flow it plastics during moulding process
An additive to PVC for electrical cable makes it flexible
What are fillers?
Added to bulk up plastic & reduce costs. Improve strength and reduce brittleness e.g expanded polystyrene
What is fibres?
Used in combination with epoxy resins and hardeners to create composites e.g aerospace
What are Stabilisers?
Added to plastic to make them more resistant to ultra violet light
What are the three stabilisers?
Heat stabilisers
Light stabilisers
Biostabilisers
What are foamants?
Increase volume of plastic, increases elasticity e.g buoyancy aids, heat and sound insulation
What is lamination?
Material produced by glueing thin veneers together, plywood most comon, made from odd numbers at 90 degrees resulting in structurally stable board. Veneers are glued and clamped in a former
