Key Addition and Condensation Polymers
Key Addition and Condensation Polymers
Polysiloxane's high thermal stability is crucial for aerospace applications because it can maintain structural integrity under extreme temperatures encountered during flight. Its availability in solid, liquid, and gaseous phases allows versatile use in various components and systems, such as surface coatings that require different physical states for application and performance .
Terylene's resistance to water makes it a highly durable material for textiles and safety equipment such as ropes and tents, which are often exposed to moisture. However, its vulnerability to NaOH means it can degrade upon exposure to strong alkaline environments. This necessitates caution in its use around such substances, potentially limiting its application in settings where alkaline exposure is likely .
Urea-formaldehyde resin plays a critical role in manufacturing laminated sheets and unbreakable cups due to its resistance to water and solvents, as well as its high mechanical strength. These properties make it an excellent choice for products that require durability and stability, such as laminated sheets, which must withstand environmental conditions, and unbreakable cups that need to endure frequent handling and washing .
The main factors allowing polypropylene to be used for stiff and hard toys and ropes include its relative stiffness and hardness, which provide the necessary durability for toys and ropes. Its chemical resistance also adds to its suitability for such uses, making it maintain its properties over time even with exposure to various environmental conditions .
Glyptal is suitable for use in paints and lacquers due to its resistance to water when dry, providing a protective and durable finish. Its chemical composition allows it to adhere well to surfaces, making it an effective choice for binding pigments and providing a continuous layer when applied .
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is suitable for use in water lines and cable insulation due to its low density, which makes it lightweight, and its flexibility, allowing it to be easily molded and shaped. Additionally, it provides good resistance to moisture and has excellent insulating properties .
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is highly resistant to acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it ideal for use in cooking ware, lubricants, and electrical insulators where chemical resistance is crucial. In contrast, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is resistant to oils and electrolytes, which makes it more suitable for applications such as electrical cooking ware. While both offer chemical resistance, PTFE is more versatile in its resistance to a wider range of substances .
Bakelite is used in gears and protective coatings due to its ability to cure under pressure, which ensures a strong and durable bond between layers. It also has good mechanical strength, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications like gears. Its resistance to electricity and heat allows it to be used in protective coatings where these properties are crucial .
Polyvinylbenzene, or polystyrene, is unsuitable for outdoor applications despite its wide usage in moulded containers and toys because it has poor resistance to weather, including ultraviolet light exposure, which can cause it to yellow and degrade over time. This limits its use to primarily indoor applications unless stabilized or modified .
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is considered important for making cheap plastic cables and pipes due to its resistance to acids and bases, making it durable in various chemical environments. Additionally, PVC is insoluble in water, alcohols, and petroleum ether, adding to its suitability for these applications. Its cost-effectiveness further enhances its usage in such applications .