Polymers

Question 1

Advantages of Thermosets

Answer 1

Usually tougher due to cross links
Usually stronger and harder than thermoplastics
Often higher heat resistance

Question 2

Disadvantages of Thermosets

Answer 2

Cannot be reformed
When heated, tend to burn
Difficult to recycle

Question 3

Advantages of Thermoplastics

Answer 3

Recyclable
Won’t burn if heated
Can be reformed into other shapes

Question 4

Disadvantages of Thermoplastics

Answer 4

Lower heat resistance
Not as strong as thermosets

Question 5

Acrylic Advantages

Answer 5

Electrical insulator
Stiff
Hard
Durable
Resistant to weathering
Wide range of colour availability
Impact-resistant
Lightweight (somewhat)

Question 6

Acrylic Disadvantages

Answer 6

Quite expensive
Brittle
Scratches easily
Not resistant to solvents

Question 7

Acrylic Uses

Answer 7

Lighting
CD cases
Car lights
Baths
Glass replacements