Abstract

IDENTIFICATION OF POLYMERS

The aim of this experiment is to determine the physcial properties of different types of
polymer which are also known in our daily life as plastics. The following six model of
plastics were identified in this study. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), High-density
polyethylene (HDPE), polypropenes (PP), Polysterene (PS), polyethylene denepthalate (PET)
and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) along with few randomly selected plastics waste such as
mineral water bottle and cap, polysterene cups, yogurt container and coke bottle were studied.
The densities of the plastics is measured by immersing in different type of liquids and the
..combustion method by burning the plastics to find the physical properties of polymers.
Through the experiment, the results have proven that the physical properties determine the
types of polymer which were tested.

2.0 Introduction

Theory
In our daily life, we encounter many polymeric materials, many of which are in the form of
disposable container used for many household products.
Polymers are macromolecules that are built up from monomers. Many natural compounds
such as proteins, carbohydrates and naturals rubbers are polymers. Subsequently, chemists
began to modify natural occuring polymers as well as synthesising new synthetic polymers
with speicifc properties. For example, cellulose iis converted to cellulose ethanoate by
esterification. The properties of polymers depend on chain length, crystallinity, strength of
intermolecular forces., degree of chain-branching or cross-linking of the polymers.
Most of the polymers we encounter in our daily lives are the six polymers listed in Diagram 1
such as Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), High-density polyethylene (HDPE),
Polypropenes (PP), Polysterene (PS), Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and Polyvinyl
chloride (PVC).

Literature Review

Problem Statement
How can the different types of polymers used in daily life be identified?

Objectives
- To recognise the different types of polymer by their observed densities
- To identify the different types of polymer through the colour of their flames under
combustion
- To analyse the different types of polymer by their measured physical densities

3,0 Methodology

3.1 Apparatus and materials

The apparatus is used to conduct this experiment are isopropyl rubbing alcohol, light corn
syrup, water, measuring cylinders,

Light corn syrup

Distilled Water

Metric or standard measuring spoon

Four small, plastic cups or bowls

Candle and matches for flame test

Kitchen tongs

Pail of water

Fine-tipped permanent marker

Procedures (written in paragraphs)