If you look around right now, you will notice a number of objects made of synthetic polymers, even if you don’t know it. Want to take a test? Choose any three objects that are close to you. If at least one of them has a component made of plastic, you are dealing with a polymer.
What can differentiate this polymer from others that also exist, very close to us, is the material that composes it and the way in which it is made. For example, some polymers arise naturally and are also present in our daily lives. Find out more in the article below!
Synthetic materials
If there are several types of polymers, what makes each one different? Initially, we separate polymers into two categories: natural and synthetic. As the name suggests, natural polymers are those that arise organically in nature.
On the other hand, synthetic polymers are those made from inputs and processes created in the laboratory. In fact, the first synthetic material created was a plastic: Parkesine, patented in 1855 and based on a natural polymer, cellulose. It is derived from organic material, so it is considered semi-synthetic nowadays.
Currently, the main raw material for synthetic polymers is petroleum. However, there are already technologies that make it possible to create polymers from renewable materials. We call them biopolymers, which do not fail to enter the category of synthetics.
Synthetic X Manufactured
It is important to note that not every manufactured object is synthetic. A table made of pure wood, for example, is manufactured because it was made by men or machines. However, generally speaking, it is still a material without any chemical modifications made by humans.
On the other hand, synthetic objects are created through unnatural processes. This means that the final product, even if found in nature, originated in chemical processes carried out in the laboratory. However, most synthetics are not found in nature.
What are synthetic polymers?
Now that you know the difference between natural and synthetic polymers, it’s time to learn how these lab-grown materials are important for our daily lives. They are popularly known as plastics, but it is essential to separate the concepts.
In this regard, it is important not to assume the idea that a polymer is plastic. This is because, as we explained, there are polymers that are natural, and plastic, by itself, is a synthetic material. Therefore, all plastic materials are polymeric, but not all polymeric materials are plastic.
Thermoplastics
Thermoplastics are polymers that, when subjected to heat and pressure, become malleable again. In this way, through processes such as blowing and injection, these materials can be remodeled and transformed into other objects.
One of the main features of thermoplastic polymers is that they do not tend to lose their good properties when they are remodeled. Thus, they are considered more sustainable options, since, theoretically, they have an infinite number of uses.
Some examples of thermoplastics are:
- polyvinyl chloride: this material, abbreviated PVC, is widely used in cables and pipes.
- polyethylene terephthalate: PET is widely used in the beverage industry, but it is also found in clothing;
- polyethylene: PE is one of the most commonly used materials in the world; it is available in high, medium, or low density.
- polypropylene: PP is used in packaging and medical equipment.
Thermosets
In the same way as other types of polymers, thermosets are created from the polymerization process. However, what distinguishes this material is that, after the first heating and shaping, it cannot be remodeled.
In this way, while a thermoplastic can be used for various purposes, a thermoset will remain with the initial characteristics for ever. This means that, in order to reuse this type of material, it is necessary to re-signify its original proposal since it cannot be recycled.
Some of the thermosetting compounds we currently have are:
- ethylene vinyl polyacetate: EVA is one of the materials we have had the most contact with since childhood. It is used in toys, shoes, and laminations.
- epoxy resin: this type of material is highly demanded because of its durability, so it serves as a finish for floors and furniture manufacturing.
- polyurethane: also called by the acronym PU, this polymer is mainly used as upholstery for beds and chairs.
- bakelite: Bakelite is one of the oldest synthetic polymers. It is used to create objects such as billiard balls, linings, and electrical instruments.
Polyexcel ensures the best synthetic polymers
Polyexcel creates several synthetic polymeric compounds for you to have the best quality in power and telecommunication cables. From thermoplastics to thermosets, you will find a complete and safe catalog for your business.
Also, if you have any questions about the products or the industry, you can check out our blog or contact us. Polyexcel will be happy to help!
