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Construct separate flow diagrams to show the steps used in the production of polyethylene and those used in the production of a recently developed biopolymer - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 31 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 31
Construct separate flow diagrams to show the steps used in the production of polyethylene and those used in the production of a recently developed biopolymer. Polye... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Construct separate flow diagrams to show the steps used in the production of polyethylene and those used in the production of a recently developed biopolymer - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 31 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Production of Polyethylene
Answer
- Ethylene: Start with the monomer ethylene, sourced from petroleum.
- High Pressure and Temperature: Use high pressure and high temperature conditions to facilitate the polymerization process.
- Initiator Species: Heat peroxide species to produce initiator species that activate the polymerization.
- Activation: Initiator molecules activate ethylene monomers to allow them to join.
- Addition Polymerization: Activated monomers join together to propagate and increase the length of the polymer chain.
- Termination: The process ends when the ends of two polymer chains join to form polyethylene.
Step 2
Production of Biopolymer
Answer
- Microorganism: Utilize suitable microorganisms such as Ralstonia eutropha that can synthesize biopolymers.
- Nutrient Feeding: Feed these microorganisms appropriate nutrients to promote growth and biopolymer production.
- Polyhydroxybutyrate: The biopolymer produced is typically polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).
- Environmental Conditions: Control nutrient diets to modify production—restricting nitrogen can promote PHB synthesis.
Step 3
Justify the Use of a Recently Developed Biopolymer
Answer
The recent development of biopolymers such as PHB marks a sustainability shift in polymer production. Unlike traditional polymers obtained from fossil fuels, biopolymers are biodegradable and sourced from renewable materials, mitigating the environmental impact associated with fossil fuel consumption. Furthermore, fossil fuel polymers often contribute to pollution and waste, as they do not break down easily in the environment. In contrast, PHB is designed to decompose, reducing landfill contributions and encouraging more environmentally friendly waste management practices.