Polymers

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Polymers are a part of our day-to-day life and without them, impossible to live in. However, most people do not even know what a polymer is, and they are available around us. Polymers are formed from hydrocarbons, hydrocarbon derivatives, or sometimes from silicon. Polymers consist of extremely large, chain-like molecules made up of numerous smaller, repeating units. 

Natural polymers: wool, hair, rubber, etc.

Synthetic polymers: Plastic, nylon, synthetic rubber, polyester

There are more complex natural polymers, such as DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), which hold genetic codes. 

Following are some common polymers that can be used to produce various types of plastics. The properties on the various plastic materials are different. Some are heat stable some are not. Collect different kind of plastic bottles and try to identify the polymer materials used to make those bottles using following information. Please note that the numbers print in the middle of the recycle sign to identify the polymer materials and record your findings for future references. Collect one each of different types of plastic materials and store in your mini-lab for future use. 

1.  Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE), General uses: Plastic bottles for carbonated drinks, water, food, liquid soap, and lotion.

 2. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), General uses: Plastic bottles and jars for cosmetic, food, milk, and detergent.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), General uses: Clear food and non-food packaging, medical tubing, and wire insulation.

4. Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), General uses: Plastic bottles for honey, mustard, and bread or food bags. 

5. Polypropylene (PP), General uses: Plastic containers for ketchup, yogurt, margarine and medicine.

6. Polystyrene (PS), General uses: Packaging for CDs, aspirin bottles, cups, plates and cutlery.

7. Other Plastics, General uses: Plastic Bottles for squeezable Ketchup and syrup.

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