Biotechnology

POLYMER ADDITIVES

fibres
 CHARACTERISTICS
The plastic is made into a
composite material, like a metal
alloy, fibre is added to enhance
the elastic and strength
Carbon fibre, fibreglass and
properties of the plastic
aramid are the fibres
normally applied in the
addition of fibre into a
plastic.
The polymer that is used in
a fibre reinforced plastic
is normally an epoxy,
vinylester or a
thermosetting plastic.
 APPLICATIONS
The results of mixing the
plastic and fibres together are
so strong that they are widely
used on aerospace and
automotive industries.
The most common application
would be carbon fibre reinforced
bicycle frames, making the frame
lighter whilst stronger than the
steel structures previously.

A lot of sports equipment now

also use fibre reinforced
plastics, especially those
which require equipment that
is used to hit objects.
 ADVANTAGES &
By
DISADVANTAGES
changing the alignment of
the layers of fibre, you can
change the strength and
resistance to change of the
polymer composite.
However if a force is applied that is
parallel to the fibre, then the
strength is weaker. If the force is so
great as to fracture the fibres, then
the material is then deemed useless.

The finishes of one side of

the material will be as smooth
as the mould the material is
placed in when being made.
 FOAMANTS

Characteristics
•Plastic will have • A substance that is used to change
more ‘spring’ its properties of plastic materials:
•Plastic can be 1. Increases volume of the plastic
pushed/pressed 2. Increases the elasticity of the
and will not plastic
loose its original
shape
APPLICATION
 Bouncy Aids in
swimming
 Air gets trapped within
the cells of the material
 Plastic will become
lightweight and buoyant

 Heat and Sound

Insulation
 Why?
ADVANTAGES
 Property of material is more suitable for its
use
 Less of it needed compared to polyestyrene

DISADVANTAGES
 Not strong
 Not biodegradable (disposal at the end of
LCA)
 Gives off toxic fumes when melted/burnt etc.