Table of Contents
Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastic
In plastics engineering, there are two main types of plastics: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Thermoplastics are plastics that can be melted and re-solidified multiple times. Thermosetting plastics are plastics that can only be melted once, and after that they are permanently solid. Thermoplastics are generally cheaper and easier to produce than thermosetting plastics. Thermosetting plastics are generally stronger and more durable than thermoplastics.
Uses of Plastic Material
Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastic
Thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics are two types of plastic materials. Thermoplastic materials can be repeatedly melted and reformed, while thermosetting plastics are permanently set after being molded.
Types of Plastic Materials
The most common types of thermoplastic materials are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polystyrene (PS). Thermosetting plastics include polyurethane (PU), epoxy (EP), and melamine (MEL).
Uses of Plastic Material
Thermoplastic materials are used for a wide range of applications, including packaging, automotive parts, and construction materials. Thermosetting plastics are used for high-performance applications such as aerospace parts and medical implants.
Thermoplastic:
Thermoplastic is a type of plastic that can be repeatedly melted and reformed. This type of plastic is often used for making products that need to be repeatedly melted and reshaped, such as food packaging and disposable cups.
1. Polyethylene Terephthalate
PET is a thermoplastic polymer resin of the polyester family and is used in the manufacture of beverage and food containers, including bottles, jars, and films. It is also used in the production of fibers for clothing, carpets, and other textiles.
2. Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a thermoplastic polymer made from the monomer vinyl chloride. It is produced on a large scale and is used in many applications. PVC is flexible and tough, and it has a wide range of applications, including construction, automotive, and packaging.
3. Polyethylene glycol
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is soluble in water. It is used as a humectant, solvent, and thickener in cosmetics and personal care products. PEG is also used in pharmaceuticals and as a food additive.
PEG is a known skin irritant. It can cause skin redness, scaling, itching, and burning. PEG can also cause allergic reactions, including skin rash, hives, and itching.
4. Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer used in a wide variety of applications, including packaging, textiles, automotive components, and construction materials. It is made from propylene, a type of hydrocarbon, and is known for its resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear. Polypropylene is also non-toxic and can be recycled.
5. Polyethylene
Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer made from the monomer ethylene. It is the most common type of plastic in the world and is used in a wide variety of applications, including packaging, textiles, and automotive components. Polyethylene is non-toxic and can be recycled.
5. Polystyrene
Polystyrene is a lightweight, rigid plastic made from the monomer styrene. It is an excellent insulator and is used in the manufacture of beverage cups, food containers, and packing materials.
6. Nylon
Nylon 6,6 is a synthetic polymer made from two monomers, caprolactam and hexamethylenediamine. It is a tough, resilient, and flexible material, which is why it is often used in clothing, sporting goods, and automotive parts.
7. Others
A. Others includes any individual or organization not included in the other six categories.
B. Others may include, but are not limited to, the following:
-Individuals or organizations with whom the library does not have a formal agreement, but who use the library’s resources
-Individuals or organizations who are not users of the library, but who have a business or other relationship with the library
Thermosetting:
Thermosetting plastics are those that once set, cannot be softened or melted again. This type of plastic is used in products such as kitchenware, automobile parts, and electrical insulation.
Types of Plastic Materials
There are many types of plastic materials that are used in a variety of industries. Some of the most common types of plastic materials include:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Polystyrene (PS)
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
Some of these materials are more common than others in certain industries. For example, polyethylene is often used in packaging and polypropylene is often used in automotive applications.
