Tuesday, 2 October 2012

Thermoplastics

Thermoplastics

ABS - ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is commonly used for projects that need to be sturdy and have a good resistance, this can be put into builders hats and children's toys. Also low most plastics it has a low melting point and is light weight, which is why it is suitable for hats and children's toys. It has a good resistance to acids, alkalis, Oils and Greases which would be good for the builders hat.

LDPE - LDPE (Low Density Poly Ethylene) because of its very low density this plastic is very good for wrapping substances like cling film and also plastic bags. It is also very cheap, which is very good for mass producing. Its properties are that it is translucent, very lightweight, waterproof and has a good chemical resistance.

PS - PS (Polystyrene) is one of the most mass produced plastics and several billion kilograms are made per year. the plastic is colourless and is usually used in disposable objects such as drinking cups and cutlery but can be used in other things such as plastic models, CD/DVD cases and smoke detectors in houses.