Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
21/07/2026 11:18 PM AWST

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Choose polymer materials for an application

Choose polymer materials for an application

Unit of competency
National Code
PMBTECH505
State Code
BAH94
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Transition (Replaced)
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
22/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030305 - Materials Engineering
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
50
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to choose polymer materials for an application as may be required for a new product or advanced process/product problem solving.This unit of competency applies to senior technicians or those in similar roles who are required to apply in-depth knowledge of materials, process, equipment and problem solving in order to identify polymer structures and properties; determine possible modifications to polymer properties; select tests and interpret results; and select the materials for an application.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Determine possible polymer properties based on polymer type
  • 1.1 Estimate molecular weight distribution changes with polymerisation mechanisms and conditions
  • 1.2 Predict the impact of monomer and polymer structure on polymer properties
2 Estimate polymer properties based on polymer structure
  • 2.1 Predict property changes caused by polarity and intermolecular forces
  • 2.2 Determine possible polymer properties based on chain flexibility variations caused by changes in regularity, tacticity and intermolecular forces
  • 2.3 Estimate polymer properties based on molecular weight/molecular weight distribution, degree of cross-linking
  • 2.4 Predict barrier properties based on molecular orientation and degree of crystallisation
3 Choose a polymer compound for an application
  • 3.1 Select appropriate base polymer/polymers for an application based on the polymer properties
  • 3.2 Determine reinforcements/additives required to meet product specification
  • 3.3 Predict failure mechanism for selected compound and modify selection if appropriate
  • 3.4 Determine the need for polymer compatibilisers and specify appropriate use if required
  • 3.5 Develop formulation and select appropriate production
4 Organise testing of polymer and interpret test results
  • 4.1 Select appropriate test(s) for compounded polymer based on test purpose and limitations and material being tested
  • 4.2 Test colour using colour coordinates as required
  • 4.3 Interpret test results and modify formulation/production method as required to meet product specification
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W7699 PMBTECH505B Choose polymer materials for an application Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
ODB23 PMBTECH505E Choose polymer materials for an application Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BCU8 PMB60116 Advanced Diploma of Polymer Technology Qualification
BCT8 PMB50116 Diploma of Polymer Technology Qualification