Understanding the chemicals used in the manufacture of plastics is essential. Although you might only want to look into using PVC for a POP display or vinyl lettering for an outdoor sign, it’s still important to know what goes into the manufacturing and fabricating of plastic. That way, you know exactly where each element comes from and what it entails. Polymershapes loves to teach people about plastic. Here, you can find out everything you need to know about the common chemicals used in plastic manufacturing and what they do.

A Chemical Question

The chemicals used in the manufacture of plastics revolve around the polymerization process. In the beginning, many plastics are monomers. Following the polymerization process, they become long-chain materials. Ethylene, for example, is a monomer. Through chemical processing, it becomes polyethylene, which is used in insulation, packaging, cling film, agricultural film, and the bottles that hold milk and water.

Chemical processing is also responsible for the formation and fabrication of polypropylene. Polypropylene shows up in a variety of applications. Not only can it be found in automotive bumpers and microwave-safe containers, but it’s also used in carpet fibers and prosthetics.

The chemicals used in plastic manufacturing are responsible for transforming vinyl chloride into polyvinyl chloride, which is better known as PVC. PVC is a versatile material found in the sheathing that covers electrical cables, automobile instrument panels, floors, wall coverings, and vinyl siding.

To learn more about the chemicals used in the manufacture of plastic, you can reach out to us. We’re happy to explain the process. You can also call us to get a quote for your project.

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