1. Polymers

2. polymers Made up of 2 or more molecules Plastics are a common form of polymer Generally molded to shape Can be shaped to any form Raw materials can be liquid, flakes or powder form Can be used in paints, insulations, non stick coatings, clothes, shoes, toys etc.

3. Uses in furniture Melamine is common form of sheeting for kitchens cupboards is stain and heat resistant. Plastics are cheaper to produce than other timber tops and stone tops such as granite benches. Useful for splash backs in kitchens and coatings on mass produced kitchen cupboards and tables

4. Melamine

5. The most economical and popular bench top material, laminate is made of several layers of melamine and phenolic resin-impregnated paper fused under high pressure and heat. It is then bonded to either a particleboard or M.D.F. substrate.

6. Man-made 'stone' Dupont, the company responsible for insulating the nose cones of NASA rocket ships, has provided the technology for your kitchen countertop with CORIAN, Dupont's revolutionary technique, developed approximately 30 years ago, blends natural minerals with pure acrylic resin creates an ideal surface for living.

7. Man-made 'stone'