Table of Contents
Introduction: ; Types of Plastic and Their Uses ;
The Different Types of Polyethylene ; Polypropylene ; Polystyrene ; Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyethylene is the most common type of plastic. It is a thermoplastic, meaning that it can be melted and reformed. Polyethylene is made of long, chains of molecules that are joined together. There are different types of polyethylene, depending on the type of molecule that is used to join the chains together.
Polypropylene is a type of polyethylene that is made of molecules that are joined together by carbon-carbon bonds. It is a thermoplastic, meaning that it can be melted and reformed. Polypropylene is used to make bottles, packaging, and construction materials.
Polystyrene is a type of polyethylene that is made of molecules that are joined together by carbon-carbon bonds. It is a thermoplastic, meaning that it can be melted and reformed. Polystyrene is used to make cups, packaging, and insulation.
Polyvinyl chloride is a type of polyethylene that is made of molecules that are joined together by carbon-carbon bonds. It is a thermoplastic, meaning that it can be melted and reformed. Polyvinyl chloride is used to make pipes, tubing, and bottles.
What is Plastic?
Plastic is a synthetic or man-made material that is typically extruded into thin films or sheets. It is composed of organic and inorganic polymers. The most common organic polymers are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The most common inorganic polymers are polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, or Teflon™) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF, or Kynar™).
Thermoplastic:
Thermoplastic polymers are polymers that become pliable or moldable above a specific temperature and return to a solid state upon cooling. Most thermoplastics have a high molecular weight and a relatively low melting point.
Thermosetting:
Thermosetting is a type of plastic that undergoes a chemical change when it is heated, causing it to become permanently set in shape. Once it has been cured, it cannot be softened or melted again. Thermosetting plastics are often used in products that need to be strong and durable, such as furniture, cabinetry, and flooring.
Types of Plastic Materials
There are many types of plastic materials that are used in a variety of industries. The most common types are listed below.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is the most common type of plastic and is used in a variety of products, including food packaging, bottles, and clothing. It is a low-cost, lightweight, and durable material that is resistant to chemicals and moisture.
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a strong and versatile plastic that is used in products such as automotive parts, packaging, and furniture. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and moisture and is recyclable.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl chloride is a durable plastic that is used in products such as pipes, window frames, and credit cards. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and moisture and is recyclable.
Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene is a lightweight and brittle plastic that is used in products such as food packaging, cups, and toys. It is not resistant to heat, chemicals, or moisture and is not recyclable.
Plastic Material Properties
The table below provides general properties for some common plastics.
Recycling of Plastic
Plastic can be recycled to make a variety of products, such as new plastic bottles, bags, crates, and toys. It can also be used to make insulation, piping, and other construction materials.
