Plastics and Stairs Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is plastic primarily composed of?
Long strings of carbon atoms bonded with other elements
Additives include plasticisers, fillers, stabilisers, colourants.
What are the two main types of plastics?
Thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics
They behave differently to heat or curing.
What is a key property of thermoplastics?
Can be reheated, remoulded, and cooled without causing chemical changes
This allows them to be recycled.
Name three types of thermoplastics.
- Polystyrene
- Polyethylene
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
What are thermosetting plastics known for?
They harden when heated and cannot be remoulded or reheated
They can withstand higher temperatures without loss of structural integrity.
What is a notable environmental consequence of plastic use?
Plastics never fully break down
2.12 billion tonnes of waste per year, with 300 million tonnes due to plastic.
What are bioplastics made from?
Renewable sources such as plants
Examples include starch, cellulose, and sugar cane.
List two pros of bioplastics.
- Can help reduce fossil fuel dependence
- Biodegradable
List two cons of bioplastics.
- Competition with food production for feedstock
- High production costs
What is a stringer in stair design?
The angled structural support for the stair treads and risers
What is the purpose of a balustrade?
To stop people from falling off the edge of stairs
What is the typical riser height for stairs?
175mm
What is the maximum slope of ramps longer than 1900mm?
1 in 14
Fill in the blank: Plastics are generally ________ than other materials.
lighter
True or False: Thermosetting plastics can be remoulded.
False
What is the total horizontal dimension of a stair called?
Run
What should be considered for safety in stair design?
Slip resistance and durability of materials
What is the purpose of ramps in architecture?
To provide accessible alternatives to stairs
What is a common composite material mentioned?
Fiberglass
It uses polymer matrix reinforced with glass fibers.
What is the function of a handrail?
To provide support along the top of a balustrade
List two types of thermosetting plastics.
- Polyurethanes
- Epoxy
What is a key consideration when designing stairs regarding headroom?
Usually a minimum of 2m
What is the relationship between the durability of plastic and environmental impact?
Durability means it never fully breaks down, contributing to waste.
What does emulating mean in the context of plastics?
Can mimic or fake other materials
