Question

The correctly match option is (Polymer) (Manufacture of) (P) PVC (1) Cups and laminated sheets (Q) Bakelite (2) Handbags (R) Polystyrene (3) Handles of utensils (S) Urea-formaldehyde resin (4) Television Cabinets (A) \(\mathrm{P} \rightarrow 2, \mathrm{R} \rightarrow 3\) (B) \(\mathrm{Q} \rightarrow 4, \mathrm{~S} \rightarrow 1\) (C) \(\mathrm{P} \rightarrow 2, \mathrm{Q} \rightarrow 3\) (D) \(\mathrm{R} \rightarrow 4, \mathrm{~S} \rightarrow 2\)

Short answer

The short answer is: The correct match is (C) \(P \rightarrow 2, Q \rightarrow 3\), where PVC (P) is used for handbags, and Bakelite (Q) is used for handles of utensils.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the uses of each polymer based on their properties

(P) PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is a versatile plastic material, which has good strength, chemical resistance and is relatively easy to process. It is commonly used for making pipes, sheets, cables, and various consumer goods. (Q) Bakelite: Bakelite is a thermosetting phenol-formaldehyde resin, which is hard, chemically resistant, and an electrical insulator. It is mainly used in electrical and electronics industries for components and fittings. (R) Polystyrene: Polystyrene is an easily moldable, lightweight, rigid, and low-cost plastic material. It is commonly used for making packaging, disposable dinnerware, and insulation materials, among other uses. (S) Urea-formaldehyde resin: Urea-formaldehyde resin is a thermosetting plastic, having good mechanical and electrical insulating properties. It is mainly used as an adhesive for particleboard, fiberboard, and plywood.

Match the polymers with their corresponding manufactures based on their properties

(1) Cups and laminated sheets: PVC can be used here due to its versatile nature and easy processing. (2) Handbags: Handbags often require good strength and chemical resistance. PVC can be a suitable choice for manufacturing handbags. (3) Handles of utensils: Bakelite can be used here, as it is a hard material, chemically resistant and a good electrical insulator, which is important for handling metallic utensils. (4) Television Cabinets: Polystyrene can be used for manufacturing television cabinets because of its moldability, lightweight nature, and low cost.

Find the correct match among the given options

(A) \(\mathrm{P} \rightarrow 2, \mathrm{R} \rightarrow 3\): Here, PVC is matched with handbags, and Polystyrene is matched with handles of utensils. This is not correct because we have established that Bakelite should be used for handles of utensils. (B) \(\mathrm{Q} \rightarrow 4, \mathrm{~S} \rightarrow 1\): Bakelite is matched with television cabinets, and Urea-formaldehyde resin is matched with cups and laminated sheets. This is not correct either as Polystyrene should be used for television cabinets. (C) \(\mathrm{P} \rightarrow 2, \mathrm{Q} \rightarrow 3\): PVC is matched with handbags, and Bakelite is matched with handles of utensils. This seems to be the correct match. (D) \(\mathrm{R} \rightarrow 4, \mathrm{~S} \rightarrow 2\): Polystyrene is matched with television cabinets, and Urea-formaldehyde resin is matched with handbags. This is not correct as PVC should be used for handbags. The correctly matched option is (C) \(\mathrm{P} \rightarrow 2, \mathrm{Q} \rightarrow 3\).

Key concepts

PVC Applications

Polyvinyl Chloride, commonly known as PVC, is a widely used plastic that has found its way into an array of applications due to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Found in products ranging from construction materials to healthcare devices, PVC's properties make it suitable for both rigid and flexible constructions.

In construction, PVC is often used in pipes and fittings due to its resistance to corrosion and chemicals. Its electrical insulation capabilities also make it ideal for wiring and cable applications. Moreover, PVC's durability is favored in the manufacturing of window frames and doors. In the healthcare sector, it is used for blood bags and tubing, taking advantage of its safety and flexibility.

Everyday consumer goods, such as handbags, shower curtains, and footwear, often incorporate PVC due to its resistance to wear and tear and easy maintenance. The polymer's versatility is also showcased in the automotive industry, where it is used in dashboards, interior panels, and upholstery.

The recyclability and ease of processing have further solidified PVC's position in various industries, making it a key material in modern manufacturing.

Bakelite Uses

Bakelite, recognised as the first synthetic plastic, is a thermosetting phenol-formaldehyde resin notable for its heat resistance and phenomenal electrical insulating properties. Although its use has declined with the advent of newer plastics, Bakelite still has invaluable applications.

Bakelite is prominently used in the electrical and electronics sectors for its non-conductivity. It serves as an excellent material for electrical insulators, switchgear, and various electrical components. Its heat-resistant quality also makes it a preferred choice for pan handles and other cookware accessories that require a stable and non-conductive grip.

In the world of fashion, Bakelite jewelry and accessory items have a cultured and vintage appeal. Collectors and enthusiasts highly prize these pieces for their colors and unique designs. Additionally, Bakelite’s strength and durability make it a suitable material for industrial applications, including mechanical parts that require high resistance to heat and chemicals.

Polystyrene Characteristics

Polystyrene, a versatile and inexpensive plastic, is known for its distinct characteristics that lend itself to a multitude of uses. It comes in various forms, including solid and foam states, each with its own set of applications.

As a rigid, transparent plastic, polystyrene is used in products like CD cases and laboratory ware, where clarity is essential. In its expanded form, commonly known as Styrofoam, it provides excellent insulation properties that make it perfect for packaging food, protecting sensitive electronics during shipping, and insulating buildings.

The material's lightweight nature combined with its ability to absorb shock efficiently means it is often used in the production of disposable cups, plates, and cutlery. It's also a popular choice for model building and craft projects due to its ease of manipulation and smooth surface. However, polystyrene's environmental impact has led to increased research into recycling and alternative materials.

Urea-formaldehyde Resin Properties

Urea-formaldehyde resin is a non-transparent thermosetting resin known for its high tensile strength and thermal stability, making it popular in the manufacturing of composite materials. It's highly valued for its adhesive qualities in the woodworking industry.

The resin binds wood particles, fibers, and veneers to produce particle board, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and hardwood plywood. Its usage results in composite wood products that are stable, strong, and suitable for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring.

Another notable property of urea-formaldehyde resin is its excellent electrical insulation. This characteristic is utilized in electrical appliances for components such as outlets, switches, and circuit boards. Coupled with its resistance to solvents and high chemical reactivity, this resin is also useful in creating durable molded products like buttons and appliance handles. Despite these benefits, concerns about formaldehyde emissions have led to the development of lower-emitting and more environmentally friendly resins.