Plastic is a synthetic material widely used in the modern world. It is a versatile material that can be molded into various shapes and sizes. Plastic is made from a combination of natural resources and chemical ingredients. The process of making plastic is a complex one and involves several stages. In this article, we will explain how plastic is made, the materials used, and the different types of plastics produced.
What are the materials used to make plastic?
Various materials are used to make plastic. Some of the common materials used in the process of making plastic include:
- Petroleum: This is the primary raw material used in making plastic. The oil is processed in a refinery to create different types of chemicals needed for making plastic.
- Natural gas: Another raw material used in making plastic is natural gas. Gas is processed to create the different chemicals used in plastic manufacturing.
- Coal: Coal is a less commonly used raw material in making plastic. It is used to create some of the chemicals used in plastic production.
- Water: Water is an essential ingredient used in the plastic manufacturing process.
- Pigments and dyes: These are added to the plastic to give it color and appearance.
- Additives: Additives are used to give plastic specific properties such as flexibility, durability, and resistance to heat and corrosion.
What is the process of making plastic?
Step 1: Feedstock production
The first stage in the process of making plastic is the production of the feedstock. The feedstock is the petroleum and natural gas-based raw materials used in the production of plastic. The feedstock production involves extracting crude oil and natural gas from the ground and processing it in a refinery to create chemicals used in plastic production.
Step 2: Polymerization
Once the feedstock is produced, the next stage is polymerization. Polymerization is the process of converting the feedstock chemicals into polymers. Polymers are long chains of molecules that make up plastic. This process involves combining the feedstock chemicals in a reactor vessel under high pressure and temperature. The heat and pressure cause the feedstock chemicals to react and bond together to create polymers.
Step 3: Compounding
Once the polymers are created, the next stage is compounding. Compounding is the process of adding different additives, dyes, and pigments to the polymers to give them specific properties. These additives are added to the polymer in a mixer or extruder machine. The machine heats the polymer and additives to create a homogenous mixture.
Step 4: Shaping
The final stage in the process of making plastic is shaping. Shaping is the process of molding the plastic into different shapes and sizes. This process involves using machines that melt the plastic and mold it into different shapes. Some of the common shaping methods used in plastic production include injection molding, rotational molding, and blow molding.
What are the different types of plastics produced?
There are different types of plastics produced based on their composition and properties. Some of the common types of plastic include:
- Polyethylene (PE): This is the most common type of plastic. It is used in the production of grocery bags, packaging, and other products
- Polypropylene (PP): This type of plastic is used in the production of containers, packaging, and automotive parts.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): PVC is used in the production of pipes, window frames, and packaging.
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET): PET is used in the production of water bottles, juice containers, and packaging.
- Polystyrene (PS): PS is used in the production of cups, food packaging, and insulation.
- Polycarbonate (PC): PC is used in the production of eyeglasses, medical devices, and automobile parts.
Conclusion
The process of making plastic is a complex one that involves several stages. Plastic is made from a combination of natural resources and chemical ingredients. The different types of plastic produced are based on their composition and properties. Understanding how plastic is made is essential in knowing its effects on the environment and the steps needed to reduce plastic waste.
FAQs
Q: Is plastic environmentally friendly?
A: Plastic is not environmentally friendly as it takes a long time to decompose and has a significant impact on the environment.
Q: How can plastic waste be reduced?
A: Plastic waste can be reduced by recycling, reducing plastic usage, and disposing of plastic waste correctly.
Q: Can all plastics be recycled?
A: Not all plastics can be recycled. Only certain types of plastic can be recycled.
Q: What are the primary uses of plastic?
A: Plastic is used in various industries, including packaging, construction, and transportation.
References
1. Science Learning Hub. (n.d.). Making plastic. Retrieved from https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/153-making-plastic
2. Forbes. (2021). Manufacturing Process of Plastic. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/06/28/the-manufacturing-process-of-plastic/?sh=5d0793b21380
3. American Chemistry Council. (n.d.). How Plastics Are Made. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsmakeitpossible.com/about-plastics/how-plastics-are-made/