Alkenes can be used to make polymers.

Different polymers must be separated first

Difficult Polymers are very large molecules made when many smaller
molecules join together, end-to-end. The smaller molecules
are called monomers.

Making
Recycling Disadvantages
Crude oil is running out

Crude oil is a non-renewable source

Expensive Made from crude oil

Problems with Polymers

Waste polymers are disposed of in landfill sites. This uses up
valuable land, and suitable sites often fill up quickly. Reduces disposal problems

Landfill

Recycling Advantages
Reduces amount of crude oil used
Disposing

Incineration

Polymers release a lot of heat energy when they burn. This

energy can be used to heat homes or generate electricity. But
there are problems with incineration. Carbon dioxide is produced,
which adds to global warming. Toxic gases are also produced,
unless the polymers are incinerated at high temperatures.
Biodegradable polymers
Most polymers, including poly(ethene) and poly(propene), are not
biodegradable. This means microorganisms cannot break them
down, so they may last for many years in rubbish dumps.
However, it is possible to include chemicals that cause the
polymer to break down more quickly. Carrier bags and refuse
bags made from degradable polymers are already available.

Recycling

Many polymers can be recycled. This reduces disposal problems

and the amount of crude oil used. But first the different polymers
must be separated from each other. This can be difficult and
expensive.