Question

In thermoplastic materials, which are used as a container/packaging material, additives like polyethylene and polypropylene are used as ______

• A. Plasticizer
• B. Stabilizers
• C. Surface treatment film
• D. Slip agent

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Thermoplastic materials, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, are widely used in the packaging industry for making containers. In the context of these materials, additives are used to impart or enhance certain properties of the final product.

Given the options:

1. Plasticizer
2. Stabilizers
3. Surface treatment film
4. Slip agent

Let us analyze each option to identify the correct additive function:

1. Plasticizer: Plasticizers are additives used in polymers to increase their flexibility, workability, and dispersibility. They essentially make the material pliable and easier to handle. In the context of polyethylene and polypropylene, plasticizers modify the material to improve its flexibility, which is critical for packaging materials, as they need to be versatile and easy to form into different shapes.
2. Stabilizers: Stabilizers are added to polymers to improve their thermal and UV stability. They prevent degradation caused by heat or ultraviolet light but are not primarily used to enhance flexibility.
3. Surface treatment film: Surface treatments are applied to change the surface properties of materials such as promoting adhesion or increasing resistance to elements. However, they are not additives with roles like plasticizers.
4. Slip agent: Slip agents reduce friction between surfaces, helping materials slide over each other. However, they do not impart flexibility to the bulk of the material.

From this analysis, Plasticizer is the correct choice, as it directly relates to improving the flexibility of packaging materials by modifying the properties of thermoplastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene.

Therefore, the correct answer is Plasticizer.