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Thermoplastics
Thermoplastics are a type of plastic that can be repeatedly melted and solidified through the application of heat. They have a linear or branched molecular structure, and their polymer chains can move freely when heated. When cooled, they solidify again, retaining their original properties. There are many more types of thermoplastics available, each with its own specific properties and applications. Thermoplastics are widely used due to their ability to be molded and reshaped, making them versatile materials in various industries.
Examples of thermoplastics include:
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Polyethylene (PE): Polyethylene is one of the most common thermoplastics. It is known for its versatility, low cost, and good chemical resistance. It is used in various applications, including packaging films, containers, pipes, and automotive parts.
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Polypropylene (PP): Polypropylene is a thermoplastic with high tensile strength, excellent chemical resistance, and good impact resistance. It is used in a wide range of applications, such as packaging, automotive components, household goods, and medical devices.
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Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC is a thermoplastic known for its excellent durability, flame resistance, and chemical resistance. It is widely used in construction for pipes, window frames, flooring, and electrical cables, as well as in medical applications and consumer products.
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Polystyrene (PS): Polystyrene is a lightweight thermoplastic with good insulation properties. It is commonly used in packaging materials, disposable cups and plates, insulation boards, and as a base material for expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam.
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Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): PET is a thermoplastic with high strength, clarity, and excellent barrier properties. It is commonly used in beverage bottles, food containers, polyester fibers for textiles, and packaging films.
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Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF): PVDF is a thermoplastic known for its excellent chemical resistance, high temperature stability, and electrical insulation properties. It is used in applications such as chemical processing, electrical components, and outdoor coatings.
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Polycarbonate (PC): Polycarbonate is a tough thermoplastic with high impact resistance and transparency. It is used in applications that require strength and clarity, such as safety goggles, automotive parts, electronic devices, and CD/DVD discs.
Properties of thermoplastics
- Softens and liquefies on heating and hardens up to cooling.
- Retains shape after manufacture
- Suitable for recycling.
- Can be reshaped by heat.
- It may melt before passing to a gaseous state.
- Allow plastic deformation when it is heated.
- They are soluble in certain solvents.
- Swell in the presence of certain solvents
Applications of thermoplastic plastic materials:
- High pressure polyethylene as applied to rigid material covered with electrical machines, tubes, etc…
- Low pressure polyethylene elastic material used for insulation of electrical cables, etc…
- Polystyrene applied for electrical insulation, and on handles of tools…
- PVC or polyvinyl chloride is used for the manufacture of insulation materials, pipes, containers, etc.