Plastics are synthetic materials made from polymers. Polymers are formed by the combination of long chains of molecules, often referred to as monomers. Plastics have a variety of uses in a range of industries, from manufacturing to construction. They are used to make everything from car parts to toys, and are light, durable, and often less expensive than other materials. Plastics are available in a variety of forms, such as sheets, rods, tubes, and films. They can be made from petroleum, natural gas, and other renewable sources, and can be coloured, shaped, and moulded into virtually any product.
Properties of plastic
1. Strength: Plastic can be made to be strong enough to hold heavy loads, making it ideal for use in containers and structural components.
2. Flexibility: Plastic can be made to be flexible, making it great for products that need to bend and move, such as hoses and wires.
3. Lightweight: Plastic is much lighter than other materials, making it ideal for products that need to be easily transported.
4. Low Cost: Plastic is much cheaper than other materials, making it an attractive choice for manufacturers.
5. Chemical Resistance: Plastic can be made to be resistant to certain chemicals, making it great for use in containers for hazardous materials.
6. Temperature Resistance: Plastic can be made to be resistant to high and low temperatures, making it great for use in freezing and high-temperature environments.
7. Durability: Plastic can be made to last for a long time, making it great for products that need to be used for extended periods of time