Plastics and Coloring of Plastics
Internet Classes
Terra currently offers the following courses over the Internet:
PET 1100 Introduction
to Plastics
PET 1240 Introduction
to Color
PET 2320 Colorants
If you are a new student, or
haven't attended for more
than one year, then you should use the Apply Online
link.
If you are a current Terra student, you can register for classes through your
student portal using the my.terra.edu
link below.
PLASTICS (PET)
PET 1100 Introduction
to Plastics
2 Lab 2 Lec 3 Credits
An overview of the plastics industry. Topics covered include: basic polymer and
organic chemistry; polymer types and properties;polymer and colorant
compounding; converting and manufacturing processes; testing; safety; and
environmental issues affecting the plastics industry. The introduction of color
into the plastics manufacturing processes using color concentrates, dry color,
and liquid color will be discussed. (Fall)
PET 1240 Introduction
to Color
0 Lab 3 Lec 3 Credits
An introduction to color theory as it applies primarily to the coloring of
plastic materials. This course will provide the background information required
to develop color matching skills in plastics, which could also be applied to
printing inks, textiles or paints. Topics covered include: how we see color;
color mixing laws; systems used to describe colors and color differences; color
difference measurement; and the use of spectrophotometers in color measurement.
A basic discussion of colorants used to color plastics will be presented. (Fall)
PET 2320 Colorants
2 Lab 3 Lec 4 Credits
Prerequisite: PET 1240 or work experience
A study of colorants used in the coloring of plastic products. The course will
present the properties of the main types of organic and inorganic pigments, as
well as solvent dyes, used to color the many different polymers used in the
plastics industry. Basic chemistry required to understand colorant interactions
will be covered. Emphasis will be placed on the selection criterion used to
select colorants for a given application. Properties examined will include: heat
stability; lightfastness; weatherability; dispersability; chemical stability;
and coloring strength. Laboratory exercises will be conducted to supplement
lecture material, including a project to evaluate the properties of an assigned
colorant. (Spring)
Color for Processors Certificate
Terra offers a certificate program that is geared towards processors of colored
plastic parts. Typically, processors are experts on forming the parts, but
not on the coloring of those parts. This certificate would provide basic
color knowledge to help prevent color problems before they happen.
Intended for quality control technicians, but useful for anyone that must deal
with the coloring of plastic parts.
The
certificate
contains the above three courses and can be completed over the Internet. There
is no need to come to the Terra Community College campus.
