Polymerisation in alkenes

Question 1

Polymer

Answer 1

Molecule made of many repeating units (monomers) bonded together

Question 2

Why are alkene based polymers non biodegradable

Answer 2

Lack of reactivity

Question 3

Recycling pros 2 and cons 2

Answer 3

Conserves finite fossil fuels Decreases waste in landfill
Costly to sort by hand
Mixed polymers renders the product useless

Question 4

Why cant PVC and other Cl containing polymers be incinerated

Answer 4

Releases toxic hydrogen chloride and dioxin when burnt

Question 5

How is PVC recycled

Answer 5

Solvents used to dissolve the polymer.
PVC is then recovered via precipitation and the solvent is reused

Question 6

2 methods of recycling

Answer 6

Incineration to produce heat, generating steam to power turbines= electricity
Feedstock recycling

Question 7

Feedstock recycling?

Answer 7

Reclaiming monomers from waste polymers to be used as raw materials for producing new polymers e.g cracking

Question 8

Bio plastics?

Answer 8

Biodegradable polymers made from plant based materials.
Renewable and sustainable

Question 9

What breaks down bio plastics and products

Answer 9

Broken down by bacteria into water, CO2 and biological compounds

Question 10

Photodegradable polymers

Answer 10

Contain bonds weakened by absorption of light

Question 11

How can toxic HCl gas be removed when produced by the combustion of PVC

Answer 11

React with NaHCO3 to neutralise