Plastic is one of the most amazing innovations of the last millennium. The name plastic itself comes out of the Greek word ‘Plastikos’ which refers to the ability of taking any shape or mold. This ability of plastic is unmatchable by any other naturally occurring substance. Not only that it can be molded into any shape itself, there are several uses for its resins as well. For instance, manufacturers who produce contract vinyl coating and OEM vinyl coating use polyvinyl chloride which is a common plastic resin.
Plastic is typically classified into two types: thermoplastics and thermosetting polymers. Thermoplastic melt when heated and can be mold again. The thermosetting plastic is melted and molded, and then it remains solid. Together both kinds of plastic have replaced metals in most application. The reason might be the light weight of this material and its ease of production. This article discusses some of the most commonly used plastics and some of their most common uses.
Polypropylene:
It is one of the most commonly used polymers. Its chemical designation is C6H3. The properties that make it the most commonly used option are its rigidity and resistivity to many chemicals. It is used in manufacturing food containers, bottles and containers’ hinges, car fenders and plastic pressure pipes.
Polystyrene:
It is a polymer made from styrene. It is used in making Styrofoam for packaging and making disposable cups. It is also a common material for CD and Cassette cases.
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene:
It is well known for its toughness as well as gloss. Therefore, it is commonly used in electronic equipment cases.
Polyester:
This is probably the one we hear the most about. Polyester is mixed with cotton and other natural fibers to make a fabric. It is also used to polish high quality wood product.
Poly Amides:
Also called Nylon, this material is another type of plastics which is used as a fabric as well. It is mainly used in car moldings. It is also used in making the bristles of a toothbrush. Fishing lines are also made up of Nylon.
Polyethylene terephthalate:
Also abbreviated as PET, this is what PET bottles of carbonated drinks and mineral water are made up of. It is also used in making microwavable packing.
Polyvinyl Chloride:
This is the same material which is used in Vinyl tiles and coatings around the house. It is also used in hosing and tubes. Because of its flexibility, it is used to make inflatable objects.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonates are usually used in chemical and manufacturing industries for different purposes. They are both temperature and Impact resistant. Many useful plastic products such as CDs, sunglasses, lab equipments and lightning lenses are made up of Polycarbonates.
There are several other kinds of plastic with countless general and special purpose types of plastic. The properties of all these plastics are different from one another. Therefore, plastic offers a wide flexible range to fulfill a variety of manufacturers’ requirements. However, environmental issues and hazards call for a cutback on this usage.