Inorganic polystyrene Polymer plastics such as polystyrene revolutionised the 20th century. Plastics are organic compounds, which means they are carbon-based. Polystyrene can damage the environment because it doesn’t break down easily. A new process has led to a new polymer which is similar to polystyrene but inorganic. This process uses an iridium catalyst and the polymer is based on nitrogen and boron. The new polymer could break down easier and be easier to recycle than the old polymer. This slide summarises a recent article published by Chemistry World. Use this slide as a lesson starter. Image credit: XXLPhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus Read the full article at rsc.li/2BaoRsy, published 18 December 2017

Inorganic polystyrene Polymer plastics such as polystyrene revolutionised the 20th century. Plastics are organic compounds, which means they are carbon-based. Polystyrene can damage the environment because it doesn’t break down easily. A new process has led to a new polymer which is similar to polystyrene but inorganic. This process uses an iridium catalyst and the polymer is based on nitrogen and boron. This new polymer could break down easier and be easier to recycle than the old polymer. Read the full article at rsc.li/2BaoRsy, published 18 December 2017 Where do the raw materials for plastics come from? Explain clearly three ways that plastics can damage the environment. If you were creating a new material, what properties a would you aim for, and for what purpose? Think of three questions you would like scientists to answer about the new polymer. Why do you want to know this information? This slide summarises a recent article published by Chemistry World. Use this slide as a lesson starter. It also contains questions which can be used to engage pupils. Image credit: XXLPhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus Crude oil, ie liquid hydrocarbon natural resources dug out of the ground. These come from the remains of animals and plants sedimented under high pressure and temperature for millions of years Make it look ugly; can harm animals if eaten; oil spills are particularly dangerous as they kill animals, destroy ecosystems, spread carcinogens Eg a new clothing material which lets water out but not in, is self-cleaning, lightweight Is it toxic to humans or animals? How long does it take to biodegrade? How can it be recycled and what is involved in the process? How much does it cost to produce?