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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Determine possible polymer properties based on polymer type
   • Estimate molecular weight distribution changes with polymerisation mechanisms and conditions
   • Predict the impact of monomer and polymer structure on polymer properties
2. Estimate polymer properties based on polymer structure
   • Predict property changes caused by polarity and intermolecular forces
   • Determine possible polymer properties based on chain flexibility variations caused by changes in regularity, tacticity and intermolecular forces
   • Estimate polymer properties based on molecular weight/molecular weight distribution, degree of cross-linking
   • Predict barrier properties based on molecular orientation and degree of crystallisation
3. Choose a polymer compound for an application
   • Select appropriate base polymer/polymers for an application based on the polymer properties
   • Determine reinforcements/additives required to meet product specification
   • Predict failure mechanism for selected compound and modify selection if appropriate
   • Determine the need for polymer compatibilisers and specify appropriate use if required
   • Develop formulation and select appropriate production
4. Organise testing of polymer and interpret test results
   • Select appropriate test(s) for compounded polymer based on test purpose and limitations and material being tested
   • Test colour using colour coordinates as required
   • Interpret test results and modify formulation/production method as required to meet product specification

Range Statement

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.
Regulatory framework	The latest version of all legislation, regulations, industry codes of practice and Australian/international standards, or the version specified by the local regulatory authority, must be used. Applicable legislation, regulations, standards and codes of practice include: health, safety and environmental (HSE) legislation, regulations and codes of practice relevant to the workplace, materials and processes being used and products being made Australian/international standards relevant to the materials being used and products being made any relevant licence and certification requirements. All operations to which this unit applies are subject to stringent HSE requirements, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation, and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between performance criteria and such requirements the legislative requirements take precedence.
Procedures	All operations must be performed in accordance with relevant procedures. Procedures are written, verbal, visual, computer-based or in some other form, and include one or any combination of: test procedures technical specifications technical drawings emergency procedures work instructions standard operating procedures (SOPs) safe work method statements (SWMS) formulas/recipes batch sheets temporary instructions any similar instructions provided for the smooth running of the plant.

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Performance Evidence

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and demonstrate the ability to:

determine polymer properties based on polymer type and polymer structure

select appropriate polymers and additives to meet product property requirements

develop formulation and determine production processes

select and organise tests

interpret test results and make modifications based on the results.

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Knowledge Evidence

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge relevant to their job sufficient to fulfil their job role, including knowledge of:

polymerisation process

polymer characteristics

property changes caused by different mechanisms and conditions for addition polymerisation

typical processing conditions for typical polymers, such as polythene

property changes caused by using bulk, suspension, solution and emulsion addition polymerisation

property changes caused by different mechanisms for condensation polymerisation

the formation of cross-linked polymers

the properties of cross-linked polymers

impact of polymerisation process on polymer properties

impact of polymer structure on polymer properties

properties and applications of polymers

the impact of tacticity on addition polymer properties

the property changes caused by different copolymer structures

the influence of molecular structure on chain regularity

the difference between polymer reinforcements and polymer composites

test methods

basic chemistry, including:

atomic structure

molecular weight

periodic table

ionic and covalent bonding

intermolecular bonding

hydrogen bonding

structure of organic compounds

functional groups and typical reactions

saturated and unsaturated compounds

aromatic compounds

hydrolysis

addition reactions

organisation procedures relevant to the work environment/job role

hierarchy of control

hazards that may arise in the job/work environment and:

their possible causes

potential consequences

appropriate risk controls.

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