Mem 12

Practical No.
12:
Identification of different types of plastics using flame tests.
I. Practical Significance
When working with plastics there is often a need to identify which particular plastic material
has been used for a given product. This is essential to get an idea of the cost and likely
properties of the product. Identifying different types of plastics using flame tests lies in their
utility across multiple fields. This method aids in efficient recycling, ensures quality control
in manufacturing, supports forensic investigations, serves as an educational tool, and
facilitates research. Despite its limitations and safety concerns, the flame test remains a
valuable and practical tool for the preliminary identification of plastics.
II. Industry/Employer Expected Outcome (s)

This practical is expected to develop the following skills for the industry/Employer.
1. Use relevant mechanical engineering materials in different applications
2. Use of flame test setup
3. Observation skill
III. Minimum Theoretical Background
A polymer is the basic long chain molecule and is a pure molecule. Polymers are most
often modified or compounded with additives (including colours) to form useful
materials. The compounded product is generally termed as plastic.
The polymer based materials are classified as "Thermoplastic materials" and
"Thermosetting materials". Thermoplastic materials can be melted many times and
will harden on cooling to return to their normal state. Applying heat will soften them
again. Thermosetting materials can be shaped and hardened once only. Applying heat
will not soften the material but will bum or char it.
IV. Experimental setup (Model)-
Fig.12.1 Flame test
V. Required Resources /Apparatus/Equipment with specification

Sr.N Instruments/Co Specifications Quantity Remark
o mponents
1 Given specimen 1 to 2cm strip of each sample 1 in group of 5

of plastics students
2 Tong,Bunsen As per availability 1

Burner ,
Beakers
VI. Precautions to be Followed

1. Flame testing should be performed within a well-ventilated hood.
2. Arrangement of water near the site of test should be made.
VII. Procedure
1. Take different samples of plastics and label them A,B,C.
2. Take sample A and clamp it in the tong.
3. Place the sample on burner flame.
4. Observe the burning of sample.
5. Note the whether samples are being softened or decomposed.
6. Repeat the procedure with other samples.
7. Record the observations.
VIII. Observations -
Table 12.1: Identification of Flame color and Type of polymer
Sr. Polymer Flame Color Type of polymer Remarks

No. Specimen
1 A
2 B
3 C
4 D
5 E
IX.Results
1. Different color of flames
2. Knowing the unknown samples
X. Interpretation of Results
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XI. Conclusions
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XII. Practical Related Questions
Note: Below given are few sample questions for reference. Teachers must design more such
questions so as to ensure the achievement of identified CO.
1 State the major sources of raw materials for the manufacture of plastics.
2 State the different tests other than flame test for identification of plastics.
3 Explain which plastics are harmless to environment.
4 List the major characteristics of plastics.
5 Explain the different methods to recycle the plastics.
6 Define thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic material.

Mem 12

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Practical No.

II. Industry/Employer Expected Outcome (s)

V. Required Resources /Apparatus/Equipment with specification

1 Given specimen 1 to 2cm strip of each sample 1 in group of 5

2 Tong,Bunsen As per availability 1

VI. Precautions to be Followed

Table 12.1: Identification of Flame color and Type of polymer

Sr. Polymer Flame Color Type of polymer Remarks

2. Knowing the unknown samples

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