Question

Identify the polymer used in making floor tiles.

• A. PETE
• B. PVC
• C. HDPE
• D. LDPE

Hint:

Whenever you see commercial terms like "vinyl flooring" or "vinyl siding" in everyday life, remember that "vinyl" is simply the common commercial shorthand for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question requires us to identify which of the listed commercial plastics/polymers is typically utilized to manufacture durable consumer floor tiles.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a versatile synthetic plastic polymer. Because of its excellent mechanical properties, structural rigidity, water resistance, and longevity, it finds widespread application throughout the construction and building industry.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's evaluate the primary industrial uses of the given options:

PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Extensively used for making synthetic clothing fibers and transparent thermoformed beverage bottles.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Used for manufacturing heavy-duty trash bins, corrosion-resistant plumbing pipes, and milk jugs.

LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): Used primarily for highly flexible squeeze bottles, carrier bags, and thin packaging wraps.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Widely formulated with plasticizers to create robust vinyl flooring panels and durable, resilient floor tiles that resist water and structural wear.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The polymer used in manufacturing floor tiles is PVC, which corresponds to option (B).