Polymer Disposal (Edexcel International A Level Chemistry)

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Polymer Disposal

  • Chemists have designed ways to remove toxic waste products like HCl before they are emitted into the
    atmosphere
  • The waste gases from the incinerator are scrubbed/reacted with a base or carbonate
  • The base reacts with the acidic HCl gas, neutralising it
    • eg. CaO (s) + 2HCl (aq)→CaCl2 (aq) + H2O (l) 
  • Chemists have also developed biodegradable and compostable polymers

Biodegradable polymers

  • Biodegradable polymers can be broken down over time by microorganisms
    • Common products from this process include carbon dioxide, water and other organic compounds
  • The polyester and polyamide condensation polymers are considered to be biodegradable as they can be broken down using hydrolysis reactions
    • This is a major advantage over the polymers produced using alkene monomers (polyalkenes)
    • When polyesters and polyamides are taken to landfill sites, they can be broken down easily and their products used for other applications

Compostable polymers

  • Compostable polymers are commonly plant-based
    • Plant starch is being used in the production of biodegradable bin liners
    • Sugar cane fibres are replacing polystyrene in the production of disposable plates and cups
  • Compostable polymers degrade naturally leaving no harmful residues

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Sonny

Author: Sonny

Expertise: Chemistry

Sonny graduated from Imperial College London with a first-class degree in Biomedical Engineering. Turning from engineering to education, he has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Sonny enjoys sharing his passion for science and producing engaging educational materials that help students reach their goals.