Thermoplastics

1. Polyethylene (PE)

• Properties: Lightweight, flexible, chemically resistant, and relatively inexpensive.
• Types:
  HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Stronger and stiffer, used in pipes, bottles, and containers.
  LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): More flexible and transparent, used in plastic bags and films.
  LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene): Offers a combination of strength and flexibility, used in stretch film and plastic packaging.
• Applications: Packaging, films, pipes, household items, food industry, and machinery manufacturing.

2. Polypropylene (PP)

• Properties: Strong, rigid, chemically resistant, and resistant to high temperatures.
• Applications: Automotive parts, food packaging, textile fibres, and medical devices.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

• Properties: Durable, water-resistant, and versatile. Can be made in both flexible and rigid forms.
• Types:
  Rigid PVC: Stiff and commonly used for pipes and window frames.
  Flexible PVC: Flexible due to additives, used in wiring and flooring.
• Applications: Pipes, construction materials, flooring, and medical devices.

4. Polystyrene (PS)

• Properties: Hard and brittle. Can be expanded (EPS) for additional insulation.
• Types:
  Hard PS: Used for packaging and disposable plates.
  EPS (Expanded Polystyrene): Foam-like, used for insulation and packaging.
• Applications: Packaging materials, disposable plates, and insulation.

5. Acrylic (PMMA)

• Properties: Transparent, UV-resistant, and scratch-resistant. Also known as plexiglass.
• Applications: Glass replacements, displays, lighting, and medical equipment.

6. Polycarbonate (PC)

• Properties: Extremely strong, impact-resistant, transparent, and heat-resistant.
• Applications: Safety glasses, electrical enclosures, CDs, and DVDs.

7. Polyamide (PA) (Nylon)

• Properties: Strong, wear-resistant, and resistant to high temperatures and chemicals.
• Applications: Clothing, automotive parts, gears, and bearings.

8. Polyoxymethylene (POM) (Delrin)

• Properties: Very stiff, wear-resistant, and resistant to fatigue and wear.
• Applications: Precision parts such as gears and bearings, medical instruments, machinery, and food industries.

9. Polylactic Acid (PLA)

• Properties: Biodegradable, made from renewable sources like corn starch.
• Applications: Compostable packaging, 3D printing, and consumer goods.

Key Characteristics of Thermoplastics

• Recyclability: Thermoplastics can be recycled by melting and re-moulding, contributing to sustainability.
• Processing Methods: They can be processed using techniques such as extrusion, injection moulding, and thermoforming.
• Design Flexibility: They can be moulded and processed into various shapes, making them versatile for many applications.

Thermoplastics are essential in modern industry due to their adaptability, ease of use, and wide range of applications, from everyday products to specialised industrial components.

Curious about the plastics Profplastic supplies? Contact us at info@profplastic.com.