Introduction to plastics and rubbers: history, classification, advantages/disadvantages and uses. Polymer chemistry and structure: polymerisation reactions and structures. Ingredients of plastics and rubbers: resins, additives, reinforcements and fillers. Properties of plastics and rubbers: electrical, optical, thermal and mechanical properties and flammability. Forms of plastics: adhesives, films, foams, filaments and fibres, coatings and composites. Production techniques: moulding, extrusion, laminating. Health and safety: hazards, toxicity, waste pollution and recycling. -- Course Website
