Polymer Theory

Monomers     ->    Polymerisation     ->   POLYMER
Monomers join together to form a long chain of molecules called polymers ( plastic )

Thermo setting plastics;
Has no links
- they soften when heated and can be remoulded so or more recyclable then thermosetting
Types of thermoplastic;
-ABS - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
-CA - Cellulose Acetate
-Nylon - Polyamide
-PMMA - (acrylic)
-PP -Polypropylene
-HIPS - High Impact Polystyrene
-PS - Polystyrene
-LDPE - Low Density Polyethylene
-HDPE - High Density Polyethylene
-uPVC - Polyvinyl Chloride
-PVC - (unplasticised flexible) Polyvinyl Chloride
-PET - Polyethylene Terephthalate
-PC - Polycarbonate

Thermoplastics;
Has links so less movement
-it can be moulded into a shape but can not be remoulded
Types of thermosetting plastics;
-Expoxy Resins - surface coatings, encapsulation of electronic components adhesive
-Melanie - Tableware,Decorative laminates
-Polyester Resins - Castings, used in GRP
-Urea formaldehyde - Electrical fittings, adhesives

Polymers are;
-Good electrical an thermal insulator
-Good strength to weight ratio
-Generally good resistance to atmosphere and chemical erosion
-Low melting point
-Lightweight
-Available in a wide range of colours and transparency ( due to different a pigments)
 -Two main categories thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics

Improving the properties of plastics;
-Fillers; bulking- reduces cost and you get more of the product eg: sawdust crushed quartz and limestone - in also strengthens it
-Flame retardants; flame resistance less likely to catch fore or slow the flames down
-Anti Static agents; reduce the effects of static charges that can build up on a product - used in synthetic carpets
-Plasticisers; these make the materials less brittle
-Stabilisers; reduce the effect of ultra violet light found in sun light