Unit 2 - Plastics
Unit 2 - Plastics
Unit 2 - Plastics
SUBMITTED BY-
ANANYA
ANUSHKA
ARNAV
AGRIM
JIYA
RITVIKA
SHUBHANJAY
INTRODUCTION
Plastics are synthetic or semi-synthetic materials
made from polymers, which are long chains of
molecules. They can be molded into various
shapes.
Plastics are typically organic polymers of high
molecular mass, but they often contain other
substances.
They are usually synthetic, most commonly
derived from petrochemicals, but many are
partially natural.
Synthetic resigns may be phenol, formaldehyde,
cellulose vinyl, alkyl, etc. The moulding
compounds are catalysts, fillers, hardeners,
lubricants, pigments, plasticizers, solvents, etc.
PROPERTIES OF PLASTICS
Density: Low; typically 0.9–2.2 g/cm³.
Transparency: Ranges from clear to opaque.
Thermal Conductivity: Low; good insulators.
Melting Point: Thermoplastics melt; thermosets do not.
Water Absorption: Generally low; most are water-resistant.
Chemical Resistance: High; resistant to many chemicals.
Electrical Insulation: Excellent insulators.
Tensile Strength: Varies; low (10-30 MPa) to high (60-70 MPa).
Elongation at Break: From brittle (2-3%) to highly ductile (up to
500%).
Impact Resistance: High (e.g., polycarbonate) to low (e.g.,
polystyrene).
Hardness: Soft (rubber) to hard (acrylic).
Flexural Strength: Ability to resist bending; varies by type.
Creep Resistance: Ability to resist deformation over time.
Abrasion Resistance: High for some types (e.g., UHMWPE).
Advantages:
Lightweight and durable
Resistant to water and chemicals
Cost-effective and easy to manufacture
Versatile in applications (packaging, construction, automotive, etc.)
Good insulator for heat and electricity
Disadvantages:
Non-biodegradable; contributes to environmental pollution
Harmful to wildlife if not disposed of properly
Can release toxic chemicals when burned
Microplastics can contaminate food and water
Difficult to recycle certain types
Uses:
Packaging: Bottles, containers, bags, and films
Construction: Pipes, insulation, windows, and flooring
Transportation: Automotive parts, aircraft components, and
marine equipment
Electronics: Cases, components, and insulation
Medical devices: Syringes, catheters, and prosthetic limbs
Consumer goods: Toys, appliances, and furniture
MONOMERS IN PLASTICS
Monomers are the fundamental building blocks of plastics. They are small
molecules with reactive sites that can bond with other monomers to form
larger structures. Common monomers used in plastics include:
POLYMERIZATION PROCESSES
The transformation of monomers into polymers typically occurs through
one of the following processes:
Addition Polymerization: Monomers with double bonds (like
ethylene) react to form a polymer without releasing any byproducts.
Condensation Polymerization: Monomers with two or more reactive
groups (like diols and dicarboxylic acids) react to form a polymer and
release a small molecule (like water).
POLYMERS IN PLASTICS
Polymers are large molecules composed of
repeating monomer units. When monomers
polymerize, they form long chains or networks,
which give plastics their distinctive properties.
Examples include:
Polyethylene (PE): Made from ethylene
monomers; used in plastic bags, bottles, and
toys.
Polypropylene (PP): Made from propylene
monomers; used in containers, automotive
parts, and textiles.
Polystyrene (PS): Made from styrene
monomers; used in packaging materials,
disposable cutlery, and insulation.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Made from vinyl
chloride monomers; used in pipes, flooring,
and medical equipment.
CLASSIFICATION IN PLASTICS
THERMOSETS THERMOPLASTICS
Pros: More resistant to high temperatures than Pros : Highly recyclable, Aesthetically- superior
thermoplastics, Highly flexible design, Thick to finishes, High-impact resistance,
thin wall capabilities, Excellent aesthetic Remolding/reshaping capabilities, Chemical
appearance, High levels of dimensional stability, resistant, Hard crystalline or rubbery surface
Cost-effective. options, Eco-friendly manufacturing.
Cons: Cannot be recycled, More difficult to Cons: Generally more expensive than
surface finish, Cannot be remolded or reshaped thermoset, Can melt if heated
TYPES OF PLASTICS
MANUFACTURING OF PLASTICS
Plastics are derived from natural, organic materials such as cellulose,
coal, natural gas, salt and crude oil.
Extraction: Crude oil and natural gas are extracted from the ground.
Refining: The raw materials are refined into ethane and propane.
Cracking: The ethane and propane are treated with heat to turn them
into ethylene and propylene.
POLYMERIZATION:
Monomer Extraction: Hydrocarbons are extracted from crude oil or natural gas
and converted into monomers like ethylene and propylene.
Pelletizing: The polymer is mixed with additives to enhance properties like color,
flexibility, UV resistance, and flame retardancy.
Blow Molding: Air is blown into a molten plastic tube to form hollow shapes like
bottles.
Thermoforming: Sheets of plastic are heated and formed over molds to create
products like packaging or trays.
MANUFACTURING OF PLASTICS
FINISHING:
Trimming/Cutting: Excess material is removed.
QUALITY CONTROL:
Testing:The finished products undergo various tests to ensure they meetrequired
specifications.
NEOPRENE
INTRODUCTION:
Neoprene (also polychloroprene) is a family of synthetic rubbers that are
produced by polymerization of chloroprene
Neoprene Rubber, also known as polychloroprene or PC Rubber, is an extremely
versatile synthetic rubber offering oil, petroleum, and weathering resistance.
Neoprene rubber was the first synthetic rubber, invented in 1930 in response to
rising demand for natural rubber.
PROPERTIES:
Durability: Resists degradation from sunlight, ozone, and
weather.
Flexibility: Maintains flexibility across a broad temperature
range, from very low to high temperatures.
Water Resistance: Effective at repelling water and
moisture.
Chemical Resistance: Resists a wide range of chemicals
including oils, solvents, and acids.
Thermal Insulation: Provides good insulation against
temperature changes.
HOW IS NEOPRENE FABRIC MADE? ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Long-lasting: Maintains its properties Cost: Generally more expensive
over time, making it durable and compared to other types of rubber
reliable. or foam materials.
Versatile: Suitable for various Environmental Impact: Challenges
environments and applications due to related to recycling and disposal
its adaptability. due to its synthetic nature.
High Performance: Performs well in
harsh conditions, including extreme
temperatures and exposure to
chemicals.
APPLICATIONS
Wetsuits:Neoprene is a popular material for wetsuits because of
its insulating and waterproofing properties.
Automotive parts:Neoprene is used in auto parts like fan belts,
hose covers, and shock absorber seals because it's abrasion- and
weather-resistant.
Gaskets and seals:Neoprene is a preferred elastomer for making
gaskets, seals, washers, and O-rings because it can create tight,
air-tight seals.
Cable jackets:Neoprene is used for jacketing in heavy-duty and
lead press cured mining cables.
Hydroponic gardening:Neoprene inserts are used in hydroponic
and aerated gardening systems to hold plants in place.
Medical equipment:Neoprene is used in face masks, personal
protective equipment (PPE), breather bags, bellows, and probe
covers.
Office items:Neoprene is used in everyday office items, such as
mouse pads and laptop cases.
Weather stripping:Neoprene is used in weather stripping for fire
doors because of its flame resistance.
EPDM-Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer
Ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM, is a type of synthetic rubber that
is commonly used across many industries.
Developed in the early 1960s, it is made from ethylene, propylene, and diene
monomers and is a very versatile and durable type of rubber with many
applications.
While natural rubber may deteriorate with exposure to sunlight and ozone and
become brittle over time, some synthetic rubbers like EPDM are designed to be
able to withstand more extreme conditions and can last much longer.
PROPERTIES:
The molecular structure of the rubber is made of a single bond. This
means that it is extremely resistant to external conditions, and factors
like UV rays cannot break this bond as easily as double bonds.
EPDM is also blessed with low electrical conductivity. This makes it a
perfect choice to adhere to other metals.
EPDM rubber also can insulate from external noises. This is why it is
being commonly used in the automotive industry.
The density of EPDM rubber can be between 0.90 to >2.00 g/cm3.
ADVANTAGES: DISADVANTAGES:
EPDM is durable, flexible, and resistant to UV exposure, ozone, aging, While it does well in extreme temperatures, it does not possess good
weathering, acids, and many other chemicals. flame resistance.
It is also one of the most water-resistant rubber materials. This It also does not have good resistance to mineral oils or petroleum oils.
durability makes it a very common choice for many different outdoor If exposed to these elements for an extended period, EPDM will
applications. Additionally, unlike many other types of rubber, it does deteriorate.
not bloom, meaning its color doesn’t fade when exposed to the It is also difficult to make a strong rubber-to-metal bond with EPDM.
elements. EPDM can last for decades if properly taken care of.
EPDM also has a very wide temperature operating range. It can
withstand temperatures as low as -60°F(-51°C), and as high as
350°F(177°C). Unlike many other polymers, it can be exposed to a range
of cycling temperatures and will not degrade.
EPDM also processes well for injection, compression, or transfer
molding.
APPLICATIONS:
Automotive – EPDM is used for many different car parts, including seals for doors
and windows, brake systems, bumpers, windshield wipers, and various hoses and
tubes.
Locomotive – EPDM is used to make flexible connectors used in locomotives. Its
flexibility, temperature resistance, resistance to ozone, and resistance to weathering
mean it can last a long time.
Construction – EPDM is used for roofing, sealants, garage door seals, pool liners, and
many other applications in construction.
Industrial – EPDM is used for water gaskets, O-rings, grommets, electrical insulation,
and weather stripping.
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE PVC
PVC is made of a long chain of vinyl chloride molecules.
These molecules consist of carbon, hydrogen and chlorine in
the chemical formula C2H3Cl.
PVC is made from salt (57 per cent) and oil/gas (43 per
cent).
It was first produced commercially in the late 1920s.
Its methods and materials used in manufacture grant the
characteristics making it a popular and practical
Vinyl is often referred to as the “infrastructure plastic,” and
with good reason. Approximately 70 percent of PVC is used
in building and construction applications. Vinyl is used so
widely in the construction industry because of its durability,
easy installation and cost-effectiveness.
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE PVC
Generally speaking, PVC materials would be classified as rigid when plasticizers have not been
added to the resin, such as pipe, siding, windows, and fence, deck and rail.
PVC flooring, wallcovering and reflective roofing are classified as flexible, and are available in a
multitude of styles and colors.
Vinyl’s durability is an important environmental benefit, because the longer a product lasts, the less
energy and other resources must be expended to make and install replacement products.
APPLICATIONS OF PVC
UNPLASTICIZED POLY(VINYL CHLORIDE) (UPVC)FOR CONSTRUCTION
ELECTRIC CONDUIT PIPE
FLOORING
PIPES
TAPS
WATER STORAGE TANK
COVERING
CABLE
WINDOW FRAMES
FASCIA AND WEATHERBOARDING
PROPERTIES OF PVC
GRP is resistant to corrosion, and this is what acts as one of the main advantages when it
comes to its increasing popularity and usage. GRP is resistant to chemical and water
corrosion, making it perfect for use in applications exposed to hostile environments, such
as those close to salt water or where there is a lot of acid rain. Due to its endurance, GRP
is a great material for various building projects, including bridge and marine construction
Use of GRP in Construction Industry
• Plastic Scaffold Tubes: they are lighter than steel scaffold tubes, require less fuel to transport
them and it is way easier to handle GRPs manually with minimum stress and fatigue
• GRP Surface Mounted Tactile: It is quite easy to install and requires little to no maintenance.
Excavation of the surface is not required for a wide range of surfaces such as asphalt, concrete,
steel, wood and ceramics.
• Drainage and Sewer Pipes: GRP Systems can replace conventional corrosive pipe materials,
including concrete, steel and iron, which frequently deteriorate in sewers. When paired with a
smooth anti-fouling bore, glass reinforcement prevents creep and enables safe low-gradient
operation without requiring routine maintenance.
Properties of GRP
• Corrosion Resistance: It is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for applications in
harsh environments such as marine, chemical plants, or areas exposed to moisture and chemicals.
• UV Resistance: With appropriate additives or coatings, GFRP can offer good resistance to
ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which helps in outdoor applications.
• High Strength-to-Weight ratio: It has a high tensile strength due to the glass fibers, making it
strong for its weight and it is lightweight compared to traditional materials like steel or concrete.
• Durable: It has excellent durability and can maintain its mechanical properties over long
periods, even in challenging environmental conditions which also makes it cost effective.
• Versatile: GRP is put through a moulding process, which allows it to take the shape of any
container. Moreover, it allows for the customization of GRP to any specification. Due to this, it
can be used as a material for various things.
ACRYLIC PLASTIC
In the plastics industry most acrylics are polymers of methyl methacrylate
(PMMA). Acrylics may be in the form of molding powders or casting syrups,
and are noted for their exceptional clarity and optical properties. Acrylics are
widely used in lighting fixtures because they are slow-burning or even self-
extinguishing, and they do not produce harmful smoke or gases in the
presence of flame.
PROPERTIES OF ACRYLIC
Transparency: Acrylic is highly transparent, allowing up to 92% of visible light to pass through. This clarity makes it an
excellent alternative to glass for applications where visibility and light transmission are important.
Lightweight: Compared to glass, acrylic is significantly lighter, which can reduce structural load and make it easier to
handle and install.
Impact Resistance: Acrylic is more impact-resistant than glass. It is less likely to shatter upon impact, making it a
safer choice for areas prone to vandalism or accidents.
UV Resistance: Acrylic has good resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light, which helps it maintain clarity and prevent
yellowing or degradation over time when exposed to sunlight.
Thermoformability: Acrylic can be easily shaped and molded when heated, allowing for the creation of complex and
custom forms and designs in architectural elements.
USES OF ACRYLIC IN ARCHITECTURE
Glazing: Acrylic is used as an alternative to glass for windows, skylights, and facades. Its high
transparency and impact resistance make it suitable for creating bright, safe, and durable openings.
Partition Walls: Acrylic panels are employed in interior design to create partition walls that provide
privacy while maintaining light flow. They can be clear or frosted to suit different design needs.
Canopies and Overhangs: Acrylic is used for canopies, awnings, and overhangs due to its weather
resistance and ability to let in natural light. Its lightweight nature makes it easier to install compared to
glass.
Signage: Acrylic is widely used for both interior and exterior signage. Its ability to be easily cut and
shaped allows for custom designs, and its clarity ensures that signage is highly visible.
Lighting Fixtures: Acrylic is used in the manufacture of lighting diffusers and fixtures. Its optical clarity
and ability to be molded into various shapes enhance both functional and decorative lighting solutions.
NYLON PLASTIC
Nylon is a family of synthetic polymers with amide backbones, usually
linking aliphatic or semi-aromatic groups. Nylons are white or colorless and
soft; some are silk-like. They are thermoplastic, which means that they can
be melt-processed into fibers, films, and diverse shapes. The properties of
nylons are often modified by blending with a wide variety of additives.
PROPERTIES OF NYLON
Durability and Strength: Nylon is known for its high tensile strength and resistance to abrasion. This makes it highly
durable and able to withstand significant wear and tear, which is why it is commonly used in products like ropes, gears,
and textiles.
Flexibility and Elasticity: Nylon has good flexibility and elasticity, allowing it to return to its original shape after
deformation. This property is crucial for applications such as clothing and upholstery where stretch and recovery are
important.
Chemical Resistance: Nylon exhibits resistance to a variety of chemicals, including oils, solvents, and greases. This
chemical resistance makes it suitable for use in industrial applications where exposure to such substances is common.
Low Moisture Absorption: Nylon has relatively low moisture absorption compared to other polymers. This property helps
maintain its mechanical properties and dimensional stability in humid or wet conditions.
Heat Resistance: Nylon has good heat resistance and can withstand moderate temperatures without significant
deformation. However, it can start to degrade at higher temperatures, so its thermal stability is generally suitable for
applications within its specified temperature range.
USES OF NYLON IN ARCHITECTURE
Cladding and Facades: Nylon plastic can be used in architectural cladding and facade systems. Its
durability and ability to withstand environmental conditions make it a good option for protective and
aesthetic exterior treatments.
Structural Components: Nylon plastic is employed in various structural components such as
connectors, brackets, and support elements. Its strength and resistance to impact make it suitable for
these applications.
Ventilation Grilles and Covers: Nylon plastic is utilized in ventilation systems for grilles, covers, and
louvers. Its resistance to environmental factors and ease of fabrication make it ideal for these
applications.
Insulation Materials: Nylon plastic is used in insulation applications, including thermal and acoustic
insulation materials. Its properties contribute to effective insulation in building envelopes and interior
spaces.