Non-polyolefin type polymers (1)

Flame testing

Sample ignites, continues to burn after match removed and burns with a clear flame. Sniff vapour.

Note: Take care when smelling any plastic material. Make sure the flame is totally out. Do not directly inhale the fumes from the burning sample. Hold the sample away from your nose (about 20 - 30 cm) and sniff just enough to get the smell. Do not inhale deeply. Take care of any dripping polymer - it will be very hot and can burn.

Results

Fruity odour - Acrylic (probably PMMA).

Burning paper odour - Cellulose acetate or Cellulose propionate (but no test available to differentiate between the two).

Burns with smell of bad butter - Cellulose acetate butyrate.

 

Last edited: 05/04/2004

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