Polymers: Stock Forms
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 5.3.1
Stock Forms
Stock forms are the different forms and sizes that we can purchase polymers in. Different stock forms come in a wide range of colours.
Different forms
- Polymers come in many forms, such as:
- Sheet materials.
- Profiles.
- Granules and pellets.
- Powders.
- Films and foams.
Sheet materials
- Sheet material comes in different sizes and thicknesses.
- Sheet material is used for vacuum forming and displays.
Profiles
- Profiles come in different shapes.
- For example, tubes, rods, squares, and angle sections.
Granules and pellets
- Granules and pellets are melted down for industrial processes.
- For example, injection moulding.
Powders
- Powders come in a range of colours.
- Powders are used for modelling, coating, and 3D painting.
Films and foams
- Films and foams come in different sizes and thicknesses.
- Clingfilm is a form of film.
- Clingfilm is used for food or packaging.
- Foam can be used for modelling or packaging.
- For example, expanded polystyrene is used for packaging.
Test yourself on Polymers: Stock Forms
What stock forms do polymers come in?
What form of polymer is used for vacuum forming?