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Maharashtra State BoardSSC (English Medium) 8th Standard
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Syllabus

Thermocol

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Topics

  • Introduction of Thermocol
  • Uses of Thermocol
  • Adverse Effects of Excessive Thermocol Use
  • Ways to Mitigate Thermocol’s Harmful Effects

Introduction of Thermocol:

Thermocol is a form of polystyrene, a synthetic material widely used for packaging, insulation, and disposable plates or cups. It transforms into a liquid state when heated above 100°C and solidifies upon cooling. This property allows it to be moulded into any desired shape. Its shock-absorbing property makes it ideal for packing delicate items to prevent damage during transportation.

Uses of Thermocol:

  1. It is used for packing fragile items like electronics, glassware, and appliances to prevent damage.
  2. Commonly used to make disposable plates, cups, and containers for events.
  3. Serves as an insulating material in buildings to maintain temperature control.
  4. Lightweight and mouldable, making it ideal for crafts and decorations.
  5. It is used in making models, props, and school projects.
  6. Protects items during transportation by absorbing shocks.
  7. Frequently used in packaging for household and industrial goods.
  8. Provides thermal insulation in cold storage and refrigerators.

Adverse Effects of Excessive Thermocol Use:

  • Thermocol contains styrene, a harmful chemical that increases the risk of cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma.
  • Reheating food in thermocol containers can release styrene into the food, causing hormonal and digestive health issues.
  • Factory workers exposed to thermocol face respiratory problems, skin burns, and allergies.
  • Long-term exposure can harm internal systems and cause miscarriages in pregnant women.
  • Thermocol is non-biodegradable, clogging landfills and water bodies and polluting ecosystems.
  • Burning thermocol releases toxic gases like carbon monoxide, contributing to air pollution.
  • Wildlife can ingest discarded thermocol, leading to severe health risks or death.
  • Disposable thermocol plates and cups used in events can leach harmful styrene when food is reheated.

Thermocol combustion and pollution 

 

Ways to Mitigate Thermocol’s Harmful Effects:

  1. Use biodegradable materials like paper, jute, or compostable plates and cups instead of thermocol.
  2. Recycle thermocol properly to prevent accumulation in landfills.
  3. Avoid burning thermocol to reduce the release of toxic gases.
  4. Educate people about the harmful effects of thermocol on health and the environment.
  5. Encourage the use of reusable items to minimise thermocol waste.
  6. Governments should restrict the use of thermocol in disposable products.
  7. Promote eco-friendly alternatives like cardboard or corn starch-based materials.
  8. Support policies that encourage sustainable packaging solutions.
  9. Raise awareness about proper waste management of thermocol.
  10. Encourage industries to shift to safer, biodegradable packaging options.
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