Types of Plastic

8/10/2019 Types of Plastic

1/9

Acetals Acrylics Amino Resins Cellulosics Phenolics Polyamides Polyesters Polyolefins Polyurethanes Styrenes Vinyls

Acetals

Acetals are engineering-type thermoplastics . The acetal homopolymer is polyoxymethylene, inwhich methyl groups are linked together by an oxygen atom.

Mechanical and Chemical Properties

Acetals are highly crystalline . They are rigid, resilient, tough, and strong. They do not easily become brittle, even with long-term exposure to unfavorable conditions and high temperatures.Acetals cannot be dissolved by organic solvents , however they have limited resistance to strongacids and oxidizing chemicals. Acetals absorb minimal amounts of moisture, a characteristicwhich enhances their high flammability.

Applications

Acetals are used in hardware components such as gears and bearings. They are also found in pumps, valves, screws, bottles, fans, paint sprayers, shower heads, tool handles, and dishes.

(Top) (Bottom)

Acrylics

Acrylics are synthetic plastics, prepared from acrylic acids. They are polymers of the esters ofacrylic acid.
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acetalshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acetalshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acrylicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acrylicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Amino%20Resinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Amino%20Resinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Cellulosicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Cellulosicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Phenolicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Phenolicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyamideshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyamideshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyestershttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyestershttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyolefinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyolefinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyurethaneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyurethaneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Styreneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Styreneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Vinylshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Vinylshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Vinylshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Styreneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyurethaneshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyolefinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyestershttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Polyamideshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Phenolicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Cellulosicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Amino%20Resinshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acrylicshttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Acetals


2/9


While acrylics are clear and transmit light exceptionally well, they are also easily coloured.They can be found in all shades, including fluorescents. Their surface lustre is outstanding.Despite the fact that they have a low softening point, acrylics are weather resistant and hard.Acrylics have low moisture absorbtivity and high scratch resistance. They are susceptible to

damage by certain chemicals such as gasoline and cleaning fluids, however they will withstand

non-oxidizing acids and household alkalies . Acrylic plastics are slow burning and burn withlittle smoke or toxicity.

Applications

Acrylics are excellent as lens material. They are used in binoculars, cameras, and eye glasses.Acrylics are also used in stop lights and car headlights. Lighting fixtures, dishes, floor waxes,carpets, piano keys, beverage dispensers, and skylights all contain acrylic plastics.

(Top) (Bottom)

Amino Resins

Amino resins consist of melamine formaldehydes and urea formaldehydes. The molecularstructure of urea formaldehyde is shown below.


Amino plastics are hard, scratch and stain resistant, moldable, thermally resistant, and come in avariety of transluscent and opaque colours. While they are fairly strong, they are not
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.html


3/9

unbreakable. They are resistant to solvents such as cleaning fluids, gasoline, and oils. Aminoswill not burn or soften, even in open flame.

Applications

Amino resins are used in molding powders. Molded products of amino plastics include switchcover plates, buttons, electric mixer housings, radio cabinets, coffee makers, and door knobs.Aminos are also extremely useful as adhesives, especially in the woods industry, and aslaminated lay-ups for kitchen counters. Finally, aminos are also employed as surface coatings on

paper and fabric.

(Top) (Bottom)

Cellulosics

"Cellulosics" is the general term for a group of plastics which are derived from cellulose, anatural occuring fibre which is obtained from wood pulp. The five principle cellulose plasticsare:

cellulose acetate cellulose nitrate cellulose propionate cellulose acetate butyrate ethyl cellulose

The molecular structure of cellulose is shown below:

Various chemical groups are substituted for the hydroxy groups in glucose, with eachsubstitution resulting in the production of one of these five plastics.

http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Top


4/9

While each of the five cellulosics have unique properties, certain characteristics are common toall of these plastics. They are among the toughest of all the plastics, and are moderately heatresistant. They have lustrous surfaces and can be found in opaque, transluscent, and transparentforms. All cellulosics are soluble in some hydrocarbons and decompose in strong acids . Cellulose plastics are available in a wide variety of colours.

Applications

Cellulosics are used in shoe heels, eyeglass frames, toothbrush handles, pen and pencil barrels, piano keys, beads, toys, fisherperson's floats and tackle, cutlery handles, combs and steeringwheels.

(Top) (Bottom)

Phenolics

Phenolics are synthetic resins, produced by the condensation of phenol with formaldehyde in the presence of a base . The generic phenolic structure is shown below.

Various chemical groups are substituted for the hydroxy groups in glucose, with eachsubstitution resulting in the production of one of these five plastics.


Phenolics are hard, rigid, heat resistant, and brittle. Fillers are used in order to improve theirtoughness. They have excellent insulating properties and are heat resistant to 260C. They arechemically inert to most common solvents and weak acids . They absorb very little moisture.Fillers are widely used in the manufacture of phenolics in order to achieve certain desired

charactertics as appropriate for the application of the plastic.

Applications
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.html


5/9

Phenolics may be used in their liquid form in laminating of veneers, fabrics, and paper.Phenolics are also used in distributor caps, brake linings, pulleys, washing machines, detergent

dispensers, telephones, salad bowls, ash trays, croquet balls, and roof panels.

(Top) (Bottom)

Polyamides

Polyamides are plastics whose structural units are linked by amide groupings. The mostcommon type of polyamide is nylon.


Polyamides are naturally beige or off-white, but they can be manufactured to be transparent.Polyamides can be easily molded. They are hard and brittle and resistant to abrasion, shrinkageand heat. Certains polyamides are especially flexible and impervious to impact. Polyamides areresistant to deterioration by alkalies , petroleum products, and organic solvents. Hot phenol,formaldehydes, ultraviolet light and mineral acids destroy polyamides. Most polyamides areself-extinguishing in the event of fire.

Applications

Polyamides are used in small bearings, speedometer gears, windshield wipers, water hosenozzels, football helmets, racehorse shoes, inks, clothing, parachute fabrics, rainwear, andcellophane.

(Top) (Bottom)

Polyesters

Polyesters are formed either by a reaction between a dibasic acid and a dihydroxy alcohol or bythe polymerization of a hydroxy carboxylic acid.
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Top


6/9


Polyesters are naturally clear and colourless, however they can be coloured and filled accordingto specifications. Polyesters do not show wear with exposure to poor weather conditions. Theyare highly resistant to chemical deterioration, withstanding most solvents , acids , and salts . Polyesters are strong and tough and range from rigid to flexible. They are also resistant to heatdamage and can be made to be self-extinguishing.

Applications

The dominant uses for polyesters are in laminating and molding. Boat hulls, automobiles, andaircraft bodies all contain polyesters. Polyesters are also found in wash tubs, luggage, hammerhandles, costume jewlery, and fan blades.

(Top) (Bottom)

Polyolefins

Polyolefins are unsaturated hydrocarbons extracted from petroleum or natural gas. The structureshown below is that of a simple, straight-chain polyolefin, however polyolefins can also be foundwith varying degrees of carbon chain branching.


The properties of the polyolefins depend in large part on the length and branching of their carbonchains. Short chains make brittle, waxy plastics. Longer chains produce a very tough plastic. Asthe density of a polyolefin increases, so do its softening temperature, gloss, and grease resistance.As the density of a polyolefin decreases, so do its crack-resistance and its permeability. Most

polyolefins are resistant to attack by acids , bases , and salts . Oxidizing agents , solvents, and
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.html


7/9

hydrocarbons can destroy this group of plastics. Uncoloured polyolefins are more susceptible todamage by weathering in the presence of oxygen and sunlight. Polyolefins are slow burning.

Applications

Polyolefins are used in pipe fittings, packaging films, surgical implants, wire insulation, beverage cases, trash-can liners, produce bags, canteens, and rug backing for automotiveflooring.

(Top) (Bottom)

Polyurethanes

Polyurethanes are produced by reacting diisocyanates with glycols. The molecular structure of

polyurethane is shown below.


Polyurethanes are naturally amber in colour. They are easily stretched; a property which hasearned them the nickname 'elastomers'. Polyurethanes are scratch, tear, and shock resistant.They are very tough but have good cushioning properties. Polyurethanes are not easily damaged

by chemicals including solvents , acids , and oils.

Applications

Polyurethanes are found in tires, gaskets, bumpers, and synthetic leather. More foamy varietiesof polyurethane are used in refrigerator insulation, sponges, furniture cushioning, and life

jackets.

(Top) (Bottom)

Styrenes
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.html


8/9

Styrene plastics are made by the polymerization of styrenes. Its carbon chain is long, linear, andamorphous .


Styrenes are smooth, clear, odourless, and tasteless. They can be found in a wide range of

colours. They melt over a wide range of temperatures and pressures, allowing for terrificmolding possibilities. They demonstrate terrific insulating properties. Styrenes are hard and brittle and show poor resistance to chemical treatments. Styrenes are limited in their amount ofliquid absorption. Butadiene fillers increase the impact resistance of styrenes, making themmuch more versatile in their range of uses. Styrenes burn slowly.

Applications

Styrenes are widely used in disposable products including picnic utensils and food containers.They are also found in automobile interior parts, model airplane and car kits, jewelery, clockcases, place mats, envelope windows, ice buckets, and egg cartons.

(Top) (Bottom)

Vinyls

Vinyl plastics are formed by the polymerization of chemical compounds containing the groupCH 2=CH .
http://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.htmlhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Bottomhttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page5.html#Tophttp://dwb4.unl.edu/Chem/CHEM869E/CHEM869ELinks/qlink.queensu.ca/~6jrt/chem210/Page9.html


9/9


Vinyls are strong, with excellent resistance to damage caused by water and chemical wearing.However, they are ruined by prolonged exposure to sunlight. They are available in a wide varietyof colours. Vinyls range from being hard and rigid to soft and flexible. Vinyls are self-

extinguishing.

Applications

Vinyls are used in automobile seat covers, shower curtains, raincoats, bottles, visors, shoe soles,garden hoses, and mannequins.

Types of Plastic

Documents

Transcript of Types of Plastic