Thermoplastic
Thermoplastics: definition, types, examples and properties
What is meant by thermoplastic?
Thermoplastics are an important class of plastics characterised by their special property: they can become soft and malleable when heated, but harden again when cooled without changing their chemical structure. This ability makes them extremely versatile in processing and application.
Which plastics belong to the thermoplastics?
A large number of plastics belong to the category of thermoplastics. These include, among others:
- Polyethylene (PE): It is the most commonly used plastic in the world. There are different types of polyethylene, including HDPE (high-density polyethylene) and LDPE (low-density polyethylene), each with different properties.
- Polypropylene (PP): Another widely used thermoplastic known for its high strength and durability.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): It is used in various forms, including rigid PVC and flexible PVC. PVC is versatile and is often used in the construction industry and for medical products.
- Polystyrene (PS): PS can be found in the form of crystalline PS (CPS) or expanded PS (EPS). EPS is better known as Styrofoam and is often used for packaging and insulation.
- Polycarbonate (PC): PC is characterised by high impact resistance and transparency, making it suitable for applications such as eyeglass lenses and CD/DVDs.
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET): It is often used for disposable beverage bottles and can be recycled.
Examples of thermoplastic
Thermoplastics are used in a wide range of industries and products
- Packaging: Thermoplastics such as PET, HDPE and PP are used for food packaging, bottles, containers and bags.
- Automotive: Plastics such as PP and ABS are used in car parts such as bumpers, dashboards and interior trim.
- Construction: PVC is used for pipes, window profiles, cladding and flooring.
- Electronics: Thermoplastics such as ABS and PC are used for electronic equipment housings, computer accessories and telecommunications equipment.
What are the properties of thermoplastics?
Thermoplastics offer a variety of properties that make their application so broad
- Malleability: they can be deformed by heat and shaped into different forms.
- Recyclability: Thermoplastics are usually recyclable, which increases their sustainability.
- Good insulation properties: Thermoplastics are good insulators in electrical applications.
- Chemical resistance: Many thermoplastics are resistant to various chemicals.
- Lightweight: Most thermoplastics are lightweight and do not add significantly to the weight of products.
- Versatility: The wide range of thermoplastics with different properties makes them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Conclusion
Thermoplastics are an important class of plastics that are widely used in many industries due to their mouldability, recyclability, insulating properties and versatility. They range from everyday products such as packaging and car parts to specialised applications in electronics and construction. The ability of thermoplastics to be mouldable when heated and re-harden when cooled allows for efficient processing and a wide range of applications.
| Plastic | Application example |
|---|---|
| Polyethylene (PE) | Food packaging |
| Polypropylen (PP) | Cars |
| Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) | Tubes, window profiles |
| Polystyrol (PS) | Packaging material, electronics housing |
| Polycarbonat (PC) | Spectacle lenses, CD/DVDs |
| Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) | Drink bottles |