Hypothesis

Introduction

In this activity we will explain a experiment with its Hypothesis, Methods and materials, the experiment and the conclusion.

Hypothesis

Most plastics are non-degradable materials. However, some have developed plastics (polymers) which are somehow degradable. An example is the polyethenol (PVA). Is obtained from methyl polietanoato in which, by reacting with methanol, acetate groups are removed and the chain is replaced by-OH groups, shedding acetate. The presence of the-OH groups has very significant effects. The most important is that the polymer is hydrophilic and, therefore, water soluble to varying extent depending on the proportion of-OH groups present in the chain and temperature. For example, when they are replaced between 87 and 89% of the acetate groups-OH, the polymer is soluble in cold water, but when they are replaced 100% of the groups, the polymer is only soluble to temperatures above 85 ° C

Methods and materials

• Plastic bags polyethenol common.

• Heat source.

• Beakers.

• Stirrer.

• Water.

• Detergent.

• Surgical suturing thread.

• Cleaning pads for swimming.

Experiment

To investigate the influence of temperature on the dissolution prepare a glass material with cold water, warm water and the other with the latter with hot water. In each cup introduce two plastic pieces of various kinds. To see the effect of the detergent repeat the previous experiments, but adding a little of this water

Conclusion

The non-degradable materials can be dissolved but it takes a lot of time and materials, the plastic bags dissolved in the solution and makes a reaction that disintegrate this object.

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