Thermoplastics are a class of polymers that become soft and moldable upon heating and harden upon cooling. This process is reversible and can be repeated multiple times. They offer excellent processing capabilities and can be easily shaped using methods like injection molding and extrusion.
Common types of thermoplastics include Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polystyrene (PS), and Polycarbonate (PC).
1) Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is a polymer synthesized from ethylene monomers. As the world's most widely produced plastic, it boasts excellent chemical stability, low density, high flexibility, and strong resistance to chemical corrosion. Its applications span numerous industries including packaging, construction, agriculture, and automotive.
Plastic bags, cling film, packaging films, and containers.
2) Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a significant thermoplastic resin polymerized from propylene monomers. This non-toxic, odorless, off-white, highly crystalline resin is one of the lightest plastics available. It is recognized for its high strength, heat resistance, and chemical stability, finding uses in packaging, automotive, construction, electronics, and healthcare.
Woven bags, films, and food containers.
3) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl Chloride is a polymer produced from vinyl chloride monomers. This non-toxic, odorless material offers good chemical corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, and mechanical strength. It is widely used in construction, packaging, healthcare, and automotive sectors.
- Packaging & Medical Applications:
PVC films, bags, IV bags, infusion tubes, and medical catheters.
4) Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene is a colorless, transparent thermoplastic synthesized via free-radical polymerization of styrene monomers. It is characterized by high transparency, good electrical insulation, ease of processing, and chemical resistance. It is extensively used in food packaging, toys, and disposable tableware.
5) Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate is a tough thermoplastic polymer containing carbonate groups (-O-C(=O)-O-) in its molecular chain, typically synthesized from bisphenol A and phosgene (COCl₂). It is renowned for its high transparency, exceptional strength, and outstanding impact resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications.