Plastics are a group of materials made up of long chains of molecules. A large proportion of them are known as hydrocarbons because the long chain molecules consist of hydrogen & carbon atoms in various combinations with other atoms.
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Thermoplastics
Can be repeatedly reheated & remoulded.
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Thermosets
Undergo a chemical change resulting in them becoming permanently rigid, they cannot be reheated & reshaped.
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Elastomers
Polymers that have a good elasticity, they can be distorted under pressure but will return to their original shape when the pressure is removed.
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Biodegradable plastics
Conventional oil based plastics do not break down easily & since the main bulk of domestic waste of made up of plastics, they have a significant effect on the environment. Biodegradable plastics are designed to be degradable under right conditions.
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Oxo-degradable polymers
Have additives that promote short degradation time, e.g less than 5 years. Additives will help the polymer break down into a fine powder from the effects of heat, oxygen, moisture & even mechanical stress.
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Water soluble polymers
Products such as liquid detergent pouches make use of the water soluble properties to dispense the detergent only when in contact with warm water.
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