Embedded Files
Elastomers have links between the monomers which are flexible even when the Thermoplastic has cooled down. This allows the plastic to have rubber-like properties.
Elastomers can generally be recycled.
Circles - bioplastic's hard blocks.
Lines and zig zags - bioplastic's soft blocks.
TPE'S.
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE’s) can be processed using conventional moulding equipment.
It calls injection moulding and have the advantage of quicker production times compared to natural or synthetic rubbers.
Another advantage is that all waste and scrap material can be recycled.
Wire and cable coatings using.
Over moulding using.
TPE’s are commonly used for wire and cable coatings, for seals and hoses in the automotive industry as well as over mouldings of grips onto power tools casings, toothbrushes, pens and utensils etc...
LIQID SILICON RUBBER (LSR).
Liquid Silicon Rubber (LSR) is a thermosetting elastomer made up of two components, of which one is a catalyst.
These can be made using injection moulding techniques.
Main advantage of this material is ability to withstand temperatures (ranging from -50C to +250C).
This makes it ideal for use in the automotive industry, for teats on baby bottles and for cooking and medical applications.
Non - recyclable material!
BIOPOLYMERS.
Can also be referred to as biodegradable plastics.
Conventional oil-based plastics do not break down easily and, since the bulk of domestic waste comes from this source, they have a significant and negative effect on the environment.
Starch based polymers are produced from wheat, corn and potatoes (Potatopak).
Polylactide (PLA) is a type of biodegradable plastic used for packaging and gardening products.
They are also used in medical implants and sutures for their ability to dissolve harmlessly into the body.
Stock form - little palletes. (made from corn)
PHA'S and PHB'S.
PHA’s are better known as Biopol and are made from natural cellulose.
PHA’s using in the area of medicine in the form of -
dispersible fixatives such as film, screws and bone plates, slow-release medication.
PHB’s are a variation of Biopol and are used in packaging as they have similar properties to polypropylene.
While stable in the environment, they will break down in soil.
DEGRADABLE POLYMERS.
Oxo-degradable polymers have additives (chemical secret elements) that promote short degradation e.g. less than five years. These help the polymer break down into a fine powder from the effects of heat, oxygen and moisture.
Photodegradable polymers also have additives, that helping them with breaking down when exposed to ultraviolet light.
Aditives - It is also possible to help conventional polymers break down more easily by the addition of an additive such as a ‘bio batch’ This can help plastics like PE, PP, PVC, PET or PS break down in less than 5 years rather than the hundred+ currently predicted for oil-based polymers.
REVISION.
Polymers are derived from natural sources but more commonly from fossil fuels such as Coal and Oil.
Thermoplastics can be recycled while Thermosetting plastics cannot.
Elastomers are flexible, rubber like plastics.
Biopolymers are derived from plants and starch based foods such as corn and potatoes.
Plastics are increasingly being used to replace wood, metal and glass which are now considered premium materials.
Conventional plastics are derived from a finite source which means they will run out but only a small amount (up to 30%) of recycled plastics can be used with virgin plastic to make new products.
More manufacturers are using plant based plastics in their products. Coke use around 20% recycled, 30% biopolymer and 50% virgin in their plastic bottles.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse