The Basics of Plastic

What is the origin of the word 'plastic' and what does it signify?

• Derived from Greek 'plastikos', meaning 'capable of being shaped or molded'

• Derived from Latin 'plasticus', meaning 'flexible'

• Derived from French 'plastique', meaning 'moldable'

• Derived from German 'plastik', meaning 'durable'

Discuss the environmental impact of plastic's slow decomposition rate and its implications for future generations.

Tags

Evaluating

Identify the two major categories of plastic and explain the key difference between them.

• Thermoplastics and Thermoset; Thermoplastics can be remelted, Thermoset cannot

• Polyethylene and Polypropylene; Polyethylene is more flexible

• PET and HDPE; PET is more transparent

• PVC and LDPE; PVC is more toxic

Explain the significance of recycling in addressing the issue of plastic waste.

Tags

Applying

What are some common uses of PET plastic, and why is it considered complex to work with?

• Water bottles, soda bottles; complex due to harmful fumes

• Toys, pipes; complex due to high cost

• Food containers, milk bottles; complex due to low strength

• Plastic bags, wraps; complex due to poor UV resistance

Discuss the challenges associated with recycling mixed plastics and the importance of keeping different types separate.

Tags

Evaluating

Match the common use with the type of plastic it is typically made from.

Groups:

(a) PET

,

(b) HDPE

,

(c) PVC

,

(d) Other

• 3D printer filament

• Tape

• Building products

• Acrylic glass

• Electrical fittings

• CDs/DVDs

• Bowls

• Film

• Fake Leather

• Crates

• Water bottles

• Toys

At what temperature does PLA start melting?

• 200-210

• 190-200

• 240-250

• 220-230

Plastics such as; ABS, Acrylic or Polycarbonate fall into which category?

• Mix (7)

• HDPE (2)

• PVC (3)

• PS (6)