What is Plastic?

Plastic is defined as a material that contains an essential ingredient an organic substance of large
molecular weight. It is also defined as polymers of long carbon chains.

Carbon atoms are linked in chains and are produced in long-chain molecules.

Plastic was discovered by famous German chemist Christian Schonbein in 1846. Plastics were
actually discovered accidentally. Christian was experimenting in his kitchen and by accident, he
spilt a mixture of nitric acid and sulphuric acid. To mop that solution (a mixture of nitric and
sulphuric acid) he took a cloth and after moping he kept it over the stove. After some time, the
cloth disappeared and from their plastic got its name.

Introduction to Plastic

The word, plastic, was derived from the word ‘Plastikos’ meaning ‘to mould’ in Greek. Fossil
fuels have compounds containing hydrogen and carbon (hydrocarbon) which act as building
blocks for long polymer molecules. These building blocks are known as monomers, they link
together to form long carbon chains called polymers.

Types of Plastics

Depending on physical properties, plastics are divided into two types: Thermoplastic and
thermosetting.

1. Thermoplastic: Plastics that can be deformed easily upon heating and can be bent
easily. Linear polymers and a combination of linear and cross-linked polymers come
under thermoplastics. Example: PVC, nylon, polythene, etc.
2. Thermosetting: Plastics that cannot be softened again by heating once they are
molded. Heavily cross-linked polymers come under the category of thermosetting
plastics. Example: Bakelite, melamine, etc. Bakelite is used for making electrical
switches whereas melamine is used for floor tiles.

Recycling of Plastic

 Recycling of plastic is very important. If they are not recycled at the proper time, then
they get mixed with other chemicals or materials and hence become more difficult to
recycle and become a source of pollution.

 They are non-biodegradable, and they do not get decomposed by the microbial action.

 To avoid this, it is important to use biopolymers or biodegradable polymers.

Properties of Plastic

 Strong and ductile.

 Poor conductors of heat and electricity.

 Easily moulded into different shapes and size.

 Resist corrosion and are resistant to many chemicals.

What is Thermosetting Plastics?

Thermosetting plastics are made up from long chains of molecules that are cross-linked. They
have a very rigid structure.

Once heated, thermosetting plastics can be moulded, shaped and pressed into shapes. Once set
they cannot be reheated since they are permanently set.

Thermosetting Plastics

Introduction

When you are studying polymers in chemistry you will generally come across a typical question
like “distinguish between or write the differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting
plastic.” While thermoset plastics and thermoplastics sound very similar, they are totally
different compounds and have different properties as well as applications.

Basically, thermosetting and thermoplastics are two different types of polymers and they are
mostly separated based on their molecular bond and reaction to heat.

Difference Between Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastic

Talking about the differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic, the main
distinguishing factor between the two is that, thermoplastic materials typically have low melting
points due to which they can further be remoulded or recycled easily.

On the other hand, thermosetting plastic is quite the opposite. They can withstand high
temperatures and once hardened these cannot be reformed or recycled even with the application
of heat. In any case, let’s have a look at some of the important differences between these two
compounds below.

Difference Between Thermoplastic and Thermosetting Plastic

Thermoplastic Thermosetting Plastic

 Thermoplastic can be synthesized by the process Thermosetting plastics are synthesized by
called addition polymerization. condensation polymerization.

Thermoplastic is processed by injection moulding, Thermosetting Plastic is processed by

extrusion process, blow moulding, thermoforming compression moulding, reaction injection
process, and rotational moulding. moulding.

Thermoplastics have secondary bonds between Thermosetting plastics have primary bonds
molecular chains. between molecular chains and held together
by strong cross-links.

Thermoplastics have low melting points and low Thermosetting plastics have high melting
tensile strength. points and tensile strength.

Thermoplastic is lower in molecular weight, Thermosetting Plastic is high in molecular

compared to thermosetting plastic. weight.

These are some of the differences between thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic.

Some examples of thermoplastics are listed below.

 Polystyrene
 Teflon
 Acrylic
 Nylon
Examples of thermosetting polymers include:

 Vulcanized rubber
 Bakelite
 Polyurethane
 Epoxy resin
 Vinyl ester resin

Frequently Asked Questions on Thermosetting Plastics

Q1

Give two examples of thermosetting plastics.

These are the plastics that, once moulded, cannot be softened by heating. Epoxy resin, melamine-
formaldehyde, and other thermosetting plastics are the most common.
Q2

What is the difference between Thermosetting plastic and Thermoplastics?

The main distinction between the two is that thermoset is a material that strengthens when heated
but cannot be remoulded or heated after initial forming, whereas thermoplastics can be reheated,
remoulded, and cooled as needed without causing any chemical changes.
Q3
How are thermosetting plastics used in everyday life?

Thermoset plastics are commonly used in construction equipment panels, electrical housings and
components, insulators, cell tower tops, heat shields, circuit breakers, agricultural feeding
troughs, motor components, and disc brake pistons.
Q4

What are the applications of thermoplastics?

A thermoplastic polymer that can be found in a wide range of applications like – Reusable plastic
containers, diapers, ropes, carpets, sanitary pads, piping systems, car batteries, electrical cable
insulation, and gas and liquid filters.
Q5

Is thermoplastic toxic?

Any product or material can be potentially or inherently toxic or safe depending on a variety of
factors. TPU is not necessarily toxic; it is safe in a wide range of applications. It is also used in
biomedical applications. Some factors may be to blame for polymer toxicity.