Properties of plastic

• • Lightweight
  • Low density
  • Water resistant
  • Heat resistant (depending on type of plastic)
  • Non-biodegradable
• Polymer = Polythene


  Use: Plastic bags
• Polymer = Polypropene


  Use: Food packaging
• Polymer - Polyvinylchloride


  Use: Window and door frames
• Polymer = Polytetrafluoroethene


  Uses: Teflon, non-stick fry pans
• What is thermoplastics


  Soften when heated (often called thermosoftening plastics)
• What is thermosetting plastics?

  Plastics that are resistant to heat and retain their shape
• Thermoplastics are made up of polymer chains there are no linked so can slide over each other. This is why they are easy to melt
• In thermosets the polymer chains have strong cross linkages which hold the structure together and make them resistant to heat. They start is a liquid form and can be set by heat, chemical reactions or radiation.
• What are the environmental issues relating to the disposal of plastics?

  • Lots aren't recyclable
  • Most are non-biodegradable
  • Toxic when burnt (release chlorine gas)
  • Don't have the facilities to recycle all types of plastic in all areas