This topic contains a solution. Click here to go to the answer

Author Question: Describe the processes of solvent/solute interaction that lead to swelling and, in some polymers, ... (Read 118 times)

madam-professor

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 584
Describe the processes of solvent/solute interaction that lead to swelling and, in some polymers, dissolving of a plastic by a solvent.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Explain why plasticizers increase flexibility and elongation in plastics. What is the relationship between plasticizers and the glass transition temperature?
 
  What will be an ideal response?



Related Topics

Need homework help now?

Ask unlimited questions for free

Ask a Question
Marked as best answer by a Subject Expert

mbcrismon

  • Sr. Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 328
Answer to Question 1

Solvent molecules form secondary bonds with the polymer molecules, usually at sites on the polymer that are chemically similar to the nature of the solvent. When many of these secondary bonds form, there is sufficient energy in the molecules to allow the penetration of the solvent molecules into the polymeric structures. This causes swelling. If even more of the secondary bonds between solvent molecules and the polymer are formed, or if the secondary bonds are extremely strong, then the total polymer molecules can be separated from the other polymer molecules and total solvation occurs.

Answer to Question 2

Plasticizers are solvents that are added to swell and partially solvate the polymer. By swelling the polymer the plasticizer expands the polymer network and, therefore, allows the polymer atoms to move more freely. This greater mobility is seen as increased polymer flexibility and elongation. Raising the temperature above the glass transition temperature has the same general effect. Therefore, adding a plasticizer lowers the glass transition temperature.



madam-professor

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 584
Both answers were spot on, thank you once again




 

Did you know?

Prostaglandins were first isolated from human semen in Sweden in the 1930s. They were so named because the researcher thought that they came from the prostate gland. In fact, prostaglandins exist and are synthesized in almost every cell of the body.

Did you know?

People with alcoholism are at a much greater risk of malnutrition than are other people and usually exhibit low levels of most vitamins (especially folic acid). This is because alcohol often takes the place of 50% of their daily intake of calories, with little nutritional value contained in it.

Did you know?

When intravenous medications are involved in adverse drug events, their harmful effects may occur more rapidly, and be more severe than errors with oral medications. This is due to the direct administration into the bloodstream.

Did you know?

The most common childhood diseases include croup, chickenpox, ear infections, flu, pneumonia, ringworm, respiratory syncytial virus, scabies, head lice, and asthma.

Did you know?

Hyperthyroidism leads to an increased rate of metabolism and affects about 1% of women but only 0.1% of men. For most people, this increased metabolic rate causes the thyroid gland to become enlarged (known as a goiter).

For a complete list of videos, visit our video library