Plastic is also a polymer like synthetic fibre which can be moulded into desired shape when soft and then hardened to produce a durable article
It is used to make many daily use articles like chairs,buckets,toys
Polythene is also an example of plastic which is used to make polythene bags
Different Types of Plastic Arrangements
Some Plastics are linear arrangement,these are called thermoplastics
While others are cross linked arrangements,these are called thermosetting plastics
Different Types of Plastics
Plastics are of two types
Thermoplastics
Those plastics which are deformed on heating and can be reformed into different shapes again are called Thermoplastics
Hence,Thermoplastics can be moulded repeatedly
Example
Polythene, PVC(Polyvinyl Chloride)
Thermosetting Plastics
Those plastics whch can be moulded only once and do not change shape on heating are called Theromosetting Plastics
They can be moulded only once
Later,they cannot be softened by heating
Example
Melamine resists fire and can tolerate heat better than other plastics. It is used to make microwave safe utensils, firemen clothes
Bakelite is a poor conductor of heat and electricity - It is used to make switches,handles of various cooking utensils
Questions
NCERT Question 6 - Explain the difference between the thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics
NCERT Question 7 -
Explain why the following are made of thermosetting plastics.
(a) Saucepan handles
(b) Electric plugs/switches/plug boards
