Plastics refer to a wide range of synthetic materials that are composed of polymers. They are typically derived from petrochemicals, including crude oil and natural gas. Plastics are characterized by their ability to be molded, providing them with immense versatility for various applications.
The process of converting raw materials into plastic involves a combination of chemical reactions, resulting in the formation of long chains of molecules known as polymers. These polymers can be then further processed into different forms, such as fibers, films, foams, or solid objects.
Plastics possess a remarkable set of properties that make them valuable in everyday life. For instance, they exhibit excellent durability, being resistant to degradation caused by water, chemicals, and sunlight. Moreover, plastics can be manufactured to possess a wide range of physical and mechanical properties, making them suitable for diverse applications in industries such as packaging, construction, automotive, electronics, healthcare, and more.
The extensive use of plastics, while bringing convenience and innovation, has also raised environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradable nature. Improper disposal of plastic waste can lead to pollution of land, water bodies, and harm to wildlife. Moreover, the extraction of raw materials required for plastic production contributes to carbon emissions and depletion of fossil fuel resources.
Efforts are being made to develop more sustainable types of plastics, including biodegradable and bio-based alternatives, as well as promoting responsible waste management practices to mitigate environmental impacts associated with traditional plastics.
