Rollover and click on an area of the illustration to read about the chemicals used there, or follow the links below:
Car
Bicycle
Wellingtons
Tools
Work Surface


 

Car
The modern motor contains an array of parts and components based on chemicals. The exterior, as well as being finished in cellulosic paint, includes a bumper which may be of polypropylene, headlamps using acrylics or polycarbonate, and possibly some trim of chromium plated steel. The interior trim and surfaces make extensive use of polyurethanes. Under the bonnet, the battery depends on a chemical process, and the sparking plugs are ceramic. Electronic components are protected from water and other contaminants by silicone encapsulants`. The engine exhaust may be cleaned by a catalytic converter. The fuel tank is of high-density polyethylene. The air bag uses a chemical propellant.

Bicycle
The bicycle's rubber tyres enclose inner tubes of a specially-formulated butyl rubber. The seat is covered with polyurethane for comfort and durability. The paint has been applied as an electrically-charged powder coating. The lights and reflectors use clear acrylic plastic. Like the car, the bicycle would not get far without lubricants.

Wellingtons
Wellingtons owe their name to the fondness for knee-length boots displayed by the Duke of Wellington. However, as he died in 1852, the rubber or PVC outer materials of modern wellingtons would have been unknown to him. Their bright colours come from the use of pigments, and the fabric inner lining requires adhesives for fixing.

Tools
Some tools in the garage are in stainless steel. Tools for cutting and grinding may be tipped with silicon carbide for hardness and durability. The same material is used in abrasives such as wet-and-dry paper. Other tools may have a PTFE coating for protection or for reduction of friction. Solder and a soldering iron are available for making and repairing metal joints.

Work Surface
Doing jobs in the garage is aided by a fluorescent light. The work surface includes pots of paint and varnish, and a bottle of white spirit. Tubes of acrylic and silicone sealants are on the shelf. A battery torch hangs nearby.