Chemistry A-Level
plasticisers
What plasticisers means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of plasticisers
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain plasticisers in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Substances mixed into a polymer such as PVC, where the ester molecules sit between the chains and hold them apart, weakening the forces between chains so the chains slide and the plastic becomes flexible.
Topics that use plasticisers
- Carboxylic acids and esters (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- acid catalysis
- alkyl alkanoate naming
- carboxyl group
- ester linkage
- Esterification
- permanent dipole-dipole forces
- separating funnel wash
- van der Waals forces
Using plasticisers in the exam
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