What are the different types of plastics?

 

 

 

 

There are hundreds of different kinds of plastic. Some plastics are hard and others are soft and bendy. Plastic can be thin, thick, coloured or see-through. Plastic is a very useful material and we use it in many different ways.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

These things are made from different types of plastic.

There are two different groups of plastic. The plastics in one group melt when they are heated, and become solid again when they cool. These groups of plastics are used to make bottles and clothing. The other groups of plastics do not change shape when they are heated. They are used to make objects such as saucepan handles and CDs.

 

 

 

Many of the things we use are made from plastic.

 

 

Acrylic is hard, strong and transparent. It is used in clothing, reflectors, paints, signs and safety ‘glasses’.

 

 

 

 

 

Polycarbonate is a clear, strong plastic. It is used to make windows, household equipment and traffic signs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

PVC is a strong plastic that is adaptable and resistant to sunlight and weather. It is used to make window frames, clothes and artificial leather.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Polystyrene is light and brittle. It can be made into foam that is used for packaging and lifejackets.