Plastic

Definition

Plastic refers to a broad category of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials made from polymers, which are long chains of molecules. These materials are known for their versatility, lightweight nature, and ability to be molded into various shapes, making them widely used in countless applications, including art and design. In the context of conservation, understanding the properties of plastic is essential for developing effective preservation techniques that address its unique challenges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plastics can be categorized into two main types: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics, each with different properties and uses.
2. Conservation techniques for plastic often involve careful cleaning, climate control, and using protective coatings to minimize degradation.
3. One major issue with plastics is their susceptibility to photodegradation, which occurs when exposure to sunlight breaks down the material's molecular structure.
4. The environmental impact of plastic waste has led to increased research in biodegradable alternatives and more sustainable conservation practices.
5. Proper identification of the type of plastic is crucial in conservation efforts because different plastics require specific treatment methods to preserve their integrity.

Review Questions

• How do the properties of plastics influence the conservation techniques applied to them?
  • The properties of plastics, such as their chemical composition and physical characteristics, directly affect the conservation techniques used. For instance, thermoplastics can be re-molded when heated, which may allow for specific repair techniques that wouldn’t work with thermosetting plastics. Additionally, understanding how different plastics degrade informs conservators about the best methods for cleaning, handling, and storing these materials to ensure their longevity.
• What role does photodegradation play in the preservation of plastic materials?
  • Photodegradation is a significant factor in the deterioration of plastic materials as it causes the breakdown of molecular structures when exposed to UV light. This process can lead to discoloration, brittleness, and loss of mechanical properties in plastics. To mitigate these effects during preservation, conservators may use UV-filtering displays or coatings and control lighting conditions in exhibition spaces.
• Evaluate the challenges faced in conserving plastic artifacts and propose innovative solutions to enhance their preservation.
  • Conserving plastic artifacts presents several challenges, including their susceptibility to degradation from environmental factors and the complexity involved in identifying different types of plastics. To enhance preservation efforts, innovative solutions could include developing advanced protective coatings that resist UV light and moisture or utilizing smart storage environments with controlled temperature and humidity. Additionally, ongoing research into biodegradable materials could lead to alternative options for creating new artifacts that are easier to conserve in the long run.

Related terms

Polymer: A large molecule composed of repeating structural units called monomers, which are covalently bonded together.

Thermoplastic: A type of plastic that becomes pliable when heated and hardens upon cooling, allowing it to be reshaped multiple times without significant degradation.

Degradation: The process by which materials break down or deteriorate over time due to environmental factors like UV exposure, moisture, or temperature fluctuations.