Why are polyalkenes chemically inert?

Polyalkenes are composed of long-chain, saturated alkane molecules that contain strong, non-polar C-H and C-C bonds. These bonds do not readily react with other substances in the natural environment.

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What are biodegradable polymers?

Biodegradable polymers are polymers that can naturally break down over time.

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Why are condensation polymers biodegradable?

Condensation polymers can be broken down by hydrolysis because they have polar bonds in their chains, making them susceptible to attack by nucleophiles.


However, hydrolysis is very slow under normal environmental conditions.

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Describe how condensation polymers can be broken down. 

Condensation polymers can be broken down by hydrolysis of the amide (-CONH-) or ester (-COO-) bonds between repeat units. This process breaks the polymer chain into its individual monomer units.

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Describe how polyesters can be broken down. 

Polyesters can be broken down using hot aqueous acid or hot aqueous alkali. The ester (-COO-) bonds between repeat units undergo hydrolysis to produce individual monomer units, which can then undergo further metabolism or degredation.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages associated with the disposal of polymers in landfills?

Advantages:

1Landfill disposal is a relatively cost-effective method.

2Landfills are suitable for plastic waste that is low quality or hard to separate.


Disadvantages:

1Methane emissions from decomposition contribute to climate change.

2Waste from landfills may contaminate water supplies.

3Requires large areas of land.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of disposing of polymers through incineration?

Advantages:

1Incineration can generate energy through combustion, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

2Incineration reduces the volume of waste send to landfills.


Disadvantages:

1Some polymers may produce toxic gases when burned.

2The release of carbon dioxide contributes to climate change.

3Incineration is an energy-intensive process.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of recycling polymers?

Advantages:

1Recycling conserves raw materials and energy.

2Recycling results in lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to incineration.

3Recycling lowers the overall cost of producing plastics.

4Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.


Disadvantages:

1The collection and processing of plastics can be costly.

2Contamination of plastics during recycling is a common issue.

3Recycling can yield lower-quality materials.

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