The word plastic is derived from the Latin word plasticus which means "capable of being molded." Indeed, plastics are moldable synthetic materials made up of a large organic molecule that can be formed into a variety of products. Depending on its purpose, plastics can be made as hard as stone or as pliable and elastic as rubber. Plastic can also be made to be as strong as steel, impact-resistant and heat-resistant. The processes involved in manufacturing the different kinds of plastic varies, and like metals, may be alloyed, or even combined with other materials. The other qualities that make plastics more distinct are being lightweight, waterproof and chemical resistant; they may also be produced in almost any color. More and more types of plastic are being studied and developed daily to further enhance the quintessential product that everybody benefits from.
Plastics also come in a variety of kinds, although all share the common characteristic of malleability or plasticity, they differ in properties, production costs, and the process of making them. Although plastics may be classified in many ways, they are commonly categorized based on the polymer element that is used as the basis in their production.
Common Plastics and How We Use Them
Inevitably, plastics have become a part of our lives. Life would certainly be very difficult without them. The countless kinds of plastics have found their way into industries and our homes and have gained permanency in both settings. The most commonly used plastics are: polyethylene, which has a wide range of uses and is very inexpensive; polypropylene used for the production of food containers and appliances; polystyrene (or Styrofoam) commonly used for disposable food containers; polyamide or nylon for toothbrush bristles and fishing lines; polyester for textiles. There are also special purpose plastics such as Teflon used in frying pans and water slides; polyurethane for insulation and upholstery foams; Bakelite insulation for electrical fixtures.
Despite all the advantages of using plastics, its threat on the environment has become increasingly intense since it degrades very slowly and when burned produces toxic fumes. Also, plastic production creates chemical pollutants which affect both the air and water and uses up the limited supply of fuel fossils. In order to alleviate the losses of the environment, it is always best to recycle plastics to either be used again to be re-processed into other products.
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