Plastics

key notes :

Plastics 

• Plastic is also a polymer. Units of some plastics have linear arrangement while some plastics are formed by the cross-linked arrangement of their units.

Types of arrangements of Atoms in Plastic

• Plastic can be moulded in all types of possible shapes.
• Plastic can be recycled, coloured, reused, mould or drawn into wires. 
• Thus, plastic is used in making toys, suitcases, bags, cabinets, brush, chairs, tables, and many other countless items.
• Polythene is one of the most famous types of plastic, which is used in the manufacturing of carrying bags.

Types of Plastic

Plastic can be divided into two main types:

• Thermoplastics
• Thermosetting

1. Thermoplastic

• Plastics that can be easily bent or deform on heating are known as thermoplastics.
  Examples: PVC and Polythene.

• Thermoplastics are used in making toys, bottles, combs, containers, etc.

2. Thermosetting Plastic

• Plastics that do not get deformed or softened on heating when mould once, are called thermosetting plastics.
  Example: Bakelite and melamine.

• Thermosetting plastics are used in making hardboard, electric switch handles of electrical appliances, handles of kitchen utensils, floor tiles, etc. 

1. Introduction to Plastics:
   • Plastics are synthetic polymers made from petrochemicals.
   • They are versatile and widely used in various applications due to their properties.
2. Types of Plastics:
   • There are two main types: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics.
   • Thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped multiple times, while thermosetting plastics become rigid and cannot be reshaped once set.
3. Composition and Structure:
   • Plastics are composed of repeating units called monomers.
   • These monomers are linked together to form long chains or networks.
   • The arrangement of molecules determines the properties of the plastic.
4. Properties of Plastics:
   • Plastics can be transparent, translucent, or opaque.
   • They have low density, making them lightweight.
   • They are good insulators of electricity and heat.
   • Plastics can be molded into various shapes and sizes.
5. Common Uses of Plastics:
   • Packaging materials (bottles, containers, bags).
   • Construction (pipes, insulation, roofing).
   • Electronics (casing for devices, wiring insulation).
   • Transportation (car parts, aircraft components).
   • Medical field (implants, disposable items).
6. Environmental Concerns:
   • Plastics are non-biodegradable, leading to pollution and waste accumulation.
   • Improper disposal can harm ecosystems and wildlife.
7. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
   • Reducing plastic consumption by using alternatives and being mindful of consumption.
   • Reusing plastic items whenever possible.
   • Recycling plastics to reduce waste and save resources.
8. Conclusion:
   • Plastics are valuable materials with a wide range of applications, but their improper use and disposal pose environmental challenges.

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