What is plastic resin?
plastic resins are produced by heating hydrocarbons in what is called the "crack process". The aim is to divide larger molecules into ethylene, propylene and other types of hydrocarbons. The amount of ethylene produced depends on the cracking temperature. Different polymers are combined to produce plastic resins that have the properties needed for different applications. After creating plastic resins, they are used to produce many different types of products.
A suitable type of plastic resin is selected to create a specific type of product. Some plastics are full of products that are hot in packaging, such as products used in some food plants. Others are used for chemical products and have to have different properties.
One type of plastic resin, known as polyethylene tephthalate, is used to produce a product borrowing bottle with soft drinks, bottles and waste containers. High density polyethylene is used to make milk jugs, bottles for vitamíns and film containers. The plastic packaging you use in your home to keep fresh food is made of vinyl/polyvinyl chloride. Plastic bags, clothing bags and mesh is made of low density polyethylene.
Many products that are known to us are made of thermoplastics. It is a very versatile material that softens when heated. It can then be shaped into different shapes. Colors can be added as needed depending on the application. Other additives are used to make the product resistant to damage by heat, light or bacteria.
Thermoplasty is a popular choice for food packaging materials because they can be shaped into different shapes at relatively low costs. When you pick up a mug of milk or a bottle with a soft drink, you can see an example of a product made of thermoplastics. Other applications for plastic resins include fibers used for a sinkRunning carpets, bumpers on vehicles and containers for microwave. This material also produces instrument panels on the inside of cars, wall papers and credit cards.
Although plastic resins can be used to produce many products we use every day, many people do not receive a message that they can be recycled. Only about half of the plastic resins are used to produce other products. The rest of them will end up in waste, which is not good news for the environment.