Polymers
A collection of resources for GCSE Design and Technology that support the teaching of thermoforming and thermosetting polymers.
Thermoforming polymers: properties and uses
A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding the different classifications of plastics and polymers. Within this lesson students will develop a familiarity of a range of thermoforming polymers, common named polymers, their properties and principal uses. Throughout the lesson students will apply taught knowledge to a worksheet which will form the basis of future revision.
Thermoforming and thermosetting polymers
This resource supports students to understand the key properties of thermosetting and thermoforming polymers and provides examples of uses for these polymers. The resource contains a classroom presentation and student worksheet.
Thermosetting polymers: properties and uses
A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding the different classifications of plastics and polymers. Within this lesson students will develop a familiarity of a range of thermosetting polymers, common named polymers, their properties and principal uses. Throughout the lesson students will apply taught knowledge to a worksheet which will form the basis of future revision.
Producing polymers: refining, fractional distillation and cracking
A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding the different classifications of plastics and polymers. Within this lesson students will understand the processes involved in refining, fractional distillation and cracking to produce workable forms of polymers. Through theory, diagrams and videos students will learn this topic and be able to apply knowledge learnt to worksheet questions.
The properties of polymers, using additives
A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understandingthe different additives which are applied to polymers and how they improve them. Students will learn the different additives and process which are applied to polymers and the benefits of doing these. Students will also develop knowledge and understanding of where plastics originate from and the significance to the environment. Through theory students will then be able to apply lesson learnt knowledge to a past paper exam question.
Biodegradable plastics
A resource which covers core theory for GCSE Design and Technology: understanding what biodegradable plastics are and their purpose for reducing plastic waste. Students will learn the environmental impact of polymers linking to the news articles (e.g.) damage to marine life. This resource will enable students to identify different biodegradable polymers, describe different applications for these polymers and analyse why these types of polymers have been used for a particular product.
Material choices at Brompton
This video looks at the different grades of steel used in the frame design of a Brompton bicycle, typically steel tube and steel sheet. Designers consider several criteria when choosing materials for a folding bicycle, including strength, weight and durability. Due to the manufacturing process, Brompton does not use aluminium for its frames as it has to be welded and not brazed. The fatigue life and cost of steel and aluminium are also compared. The film also looks at the materials used for other parts of the bicycle, such as tyres, handle bars and pedals, specifically exploring the use of ABS.
