Thermoplastics are a wide group of materials divided into two main groups based on their usage- engineering plastics and commodity plastics. These plastics are made of chains of molecules called polymers that maintain their connection through intermolecular forces. Thermoplastics are made when polymer is melted and injected into steel or aluminum molds at high pressure.
Commodity Plastics
Commodity plastics are used in a wide variety of industries in the mass production of products and objects that are designed for single use. Examples of commodity plastics include; jerrycans, plastic bottles, plastic bags, plastic containers, and packaging material. In addition, commodity plastics are used in other mass production items, including product casings, children’s toys, and telecommunications products. Commodity plastics are usually more cost-effective than other alternatives and are used when the mechanical properties of the material do not have a negative impact on the functions and performance of the produced products.
Commodity Plastics Applications
Commodity plastics have many types with numerous applications. For example; Ethylene-vinyl Acetate (EVA) is used in swimming buoyancy aids and sneakers and flip-flops soles. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is used in manufacturing plastic pails, jerry cans, pipes, and canisters, and containers. On the other hand, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene is used for plastic casings for children’s toys and electronic items. While Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is used for manufacturing-related products such as; packaging foam.
Further, Polyethylene or PE is a common type of commodity plastics used in plastic bags and packaging materials. Polypropylene (PP) is used in manufacturing luggage, chairs, and sterile bottles. These are just some of the types and applications of commodity plastics, there are many other types that are commonly used in many industries.
Engineering Plastics
On the other hand, engineering plastics are manufactured to withstand mechanical and environmental conditions. Unlike commodity plastics, engineering plastics are not mass produced but rather made in small quantities to meet a specific business need.
Engineering plastics have several characteristics that make them highly sought-after for many industries. These characteristics include heat resistance, high mechanical strength, self-lubrication, and chemical stability. Further, these distinct characteristics have resulted in the replacement of traditional materials like metal and wood with engineering plastics. In many cases, engineering plastics are combined with other materials such as glass fibers in order to enhance their beneficial properties.
Engineering Plastics Applications
Engineering plastics are used in applications requiring chemical resistance, and low friction. Materials such as Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) are commonly used in connector strips, valve parts, and household items due to their distinct characteristics such as; thermal deformation resistance, rigidity, and high strength. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is used for bearings, pumps, and cable insulation. Additionally, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is used in the automotive, electronics, mechanical, and food industries.
