Exploring Polymers: Thermosetting and Thermoforming

• Science
• Upper Secondary (Key Stage 4)
• GCSE

Exploring Polymers: Thermosetting and Thermoforming

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to identify different types of polymers and understand the categories of thermosetting and thermoforming.

What do you already know about polymers and their different categories?

Slide 1: Introduction to Polymers

Polymers are large molecules made up of repeating subunits called monomers. They have a wide range of applications in various industries.

Slide 2: Types of Polymers

There are two main types of polymers: thermoplastics and thermosetting polymers.

Slide 3: Thermoplastics

Thermoplastics are polymers that can be melted and reshaped multiple times without undergoing chemical changes. Examples include polyethylene, PVC, and polypropylene.

Slide 4: Thermosetting Polymers

Thermosetting polymers are polymers that undergo a chemical reaction during curing, which makes them hard and infusible. Examples include epoxy resins, phenolic resins, and melamine formaldehyde.

Slide 5: Properties of Thermosetting Polymers

Thermosetting polymers have excellent heat resistance, dimensional stability, and electrical insulation properties. They are widely used in electrical and automotive industries.

Slide 6: Thermoforming Process

Thermoforming is a manufacturing process where a plastic sheet is heated and then shaped using a mold. It is commonly used in packaging and making disposable products.

Slide 7: Differences between Thermosetting and Thermoplastic

The main difference between thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers is that thermosetting polymers cannot be melted and reshaped once they are cured, while thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped multiple times.

Slide 8: Summary

In summary, polymers are large molecules made up of repeating subunits. Thermosetting polymers undergo a chemical reaction during curing, while thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped multiple times.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.