HOW DO YOU PLASTIC?
Plastic is obtained from carbon and hydrogen compounds called “monomers”. They are obtained from PETROLEUM and from METHANE. Imagine monomers as an agglomeration of very small particles that, through complex chemical processes, join together and form long chains called polymers. This creates the synthetic resin, a soft paste to which dyes and other substances are added to give the desired characteristics to the plastic. This paste is then transformed into granules and powders ready for the creation of objects. These granules are sent to factories that produce plastic objects. Plastics have various physical, mechanical and technological properties . Let’s see them together.
PROPERTY À PHYSICAL
plastic is non-biodegradable (i.e. does not dissolve in water)
at room temperature is solid
is lightweight
is an electrically insulating, heat and sound
is impermeable to liquids and gases
lasts over time and resists weathering
said plastics ” thermoplastics “resist well to acids but not to solvents (such as acetone)
” thermosetting “plastics resist to solvents but not to acids
PROPERTY À MECHANICAL
plastic has a good resistance to stresses (can also be elevated in special plastic)
has a discrete hardness
PROPERTY À TECHNOLOGICAL
plastic is ductile and malleable
it can work easily at low temperature (around 150-200 ° C). Low temperatures, by industrial standards, eh!
thermoplastic plastics melt easily
and thermosetting plastics do not melt easily
But how can plastic granules and powders be transformed into objects? Watch the video and find out how plastic cups and forks are made in the factory!
VIDEO: PLASTIC WORKING
PLASTIC INQUINES?
Plastic is not biodegradable (does not dissolve in water) but is recyclable. To be produced requires less energy than it takes for a glass bottle or a paper bag. Being lighter than other packaging materials it requires less energy even for transport. Less energy is consumed, therefore, the less it pollutes.
