UNIT 2: ELASTOMERS

Question 1

What are properties of elastomers?

Answer 1

• Highly elastic and capable of recovering their original shape after being stretched
• Most elastomers are thermosets

Question 2

Name types of elastomers

Answer 2

• Silicone
• Neoprene
• Natural rubber
• Polybutadiene

Question 3

If an elastomer is flexible what can it do?

Answer 3

• provide stretch so useful where:
  The material will expand or contract due to temperature changes.
• Be inflated and pressurised
• worn to compress an injury or keep water out

Question 4

If an elastomer provides grip, explain how?

Answer 4

• Due to impact-absorbing materials, elastomers can be used to enhance the ergonomics of products
• These may take the form of sleeves or handles
• Over moulding is also used to create spongy grips of textures on other thermoplastic products

Question 5

What can overmoulding be used on?

Answer 5

• Found on products like torches, pens, toothbrushes, and sports bottles

Question 6

What is vulcanisation?

Answer 6

A process to cure rubber making it harder, more durable and heat resistant

Question 7

Explain the process of Vulcanisation

Answer 7

A curing agent, sulphur, is added to the latex from the rubber tree

• When heated and pressurised, the sulphur atoms form cross-links
• Vulcanised rubber is tough and can more easily retain its shape