PLASTICS

PLASTICS

1. Thermosetting plastics

   • Thermosetting plastics are available in powder or granular form and consist of a synthetic resin mixed with a filler.
   • Include phenolic resisns, polyester and epoxy resins
   • Example: Clothespins.

2. Thermoplastics

   • Unlike thermosets, thermoplastics soften every time they are heated. This makes it possible to easily recycle such materials, because waste materials can be ground up and recycled easily.
   • Include acrylics, polythene, nylon, poyester and a variety of vinyl plastics including polythene, polypropylene, polystyrene and polyvinylchloride.
   • Example: Lego.

3. Elastomers

   • Elastomers are polymer materials with elastic properties. Common exaples are plastic bands and car tyres. They are usually thermosets but can also be thermoplastics. Thermosetting elastomers like rubber require a process called vulcanising.
   • Example: Tires.

4. Reinforced plastics

   • Plastics can be significantly strengthened by reinforcing them with fibrous materials
   • Include laminated plastics and glass reinforced plastics
   • Example: Glass reinforced.