A manufacturer is deciding whether to make a product from a virgin polymer or from recycled polymer. Explain the factors the manufacturer must weigh in maki...
Question 1 Report
A manufacturer is deciding whether to make a product from a virgin polymer or from recycled polymer. Explain the factors the manufacturer must weigh in making this decision. [5]
Answer Details
The decision involves a trade-off between environmental benefits, cost, material performance, appearance and supply reliability.
- Recycled polymer reduces demand for oil-based virgin feedstock and diverts waste from landfill, lowering the ecological footprint. [1]
- It is often cheaper per kilogram than virgin polymer. [1]
- Its properties can be less consistent because the feedstock comes from mixed sources. The design may therefore need thicker sections or wider tolerances to ensure performance. [1]
- Colour is harder to control and surface finish is often poorer, which is important for a visible component. [1]
- Supply may be less reliable in the required quantity and grade. [1]
A justified conclusion is that recycled polymer may suit hidden structural parts, while virgin polymer may be more suitable for visible or highly stressed parts where consistent strength, finish and colour are essential. [1] A full response weighs these competing factors rather than claiming that one material is always best. [5]
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
