1
Q
What does the term plastic additives mean?
A
Plastic additives are used to improve the properties of plastics, in a similar way to heat treatments.
2
Q
What do fillers do?
A
- reduce the bulk.
- generally cheap
- i.e. sawdust, wood flour, crushed quartz and limestone
- some increase strength and hardness by removing brittleness
3
Q
What do flame-retardants do?
A
- reduce risk of combustion
- chemical reaction once combustion begins releases agents that stifles combustion
- i.e. foam used to fill seating cushions
4
Q
What do anti-static agents do?
A
- reduce effects of static charges that could build up on a product
- i.e. carpets
5
Q
What do plasticiser do?
A
- added to polymer to improve the flow properties
- they reduce the softening temperature making the material less brittle
6
Q
What do stabilisers do?
A
- reduce the effects of ultraviolet light, making them resistant to sunlight
- i.e. windows, doors and conservatory components
