TeXes Science Practice Test

Which polymer is suitable for making unbreakable cups and laminated sheets?

1. Polystyrene

2. Neoprene

3. Urea formaldehyde resin

4. PVC

The correct answer is: Urea formaldehyde resin

The choice of urea formaldehyde resin for making unbreakable cups and laminated sheets is appropriate due to its strong structural properties and resistance to heat. Urea formaldehyde is a thermosetting resin that provides durability and a rigid structure once set, which makes it ideal for applications that require such characteristics. When cured, it becomes hard and inflexible, leading to products that can withstand impact and are less likely to break. Its ability to form a strong bond with other materials also makes it suitable for laminated sheets, providing excellent surface finish and rigidity. This resin is often used in various applications, including binding materials and coatings that benefit from its water and chemical resistance. Other options, while potentially useful in different applications, do not exhibit the same combination of properties that make urea formaldehyde resin the best choice for making unbreakable cups and laminated sheets. For instance, polystyrene, although useful for disposable cups, lacks the requisite durability and strength when compared to urea formaldehyde. Similarly, neoprene is primarily known for its flexibility and resilience but is not as effective in applications requiring hardness and rigidity. PVC, while versatile, is typically used for other types of containers and is not specifically suited for unbreakable cups