Where Do Thermoplastics Come from?

Thermoplastics are synthesized from plants in large amounts and transformed through chemical processing. Some of the most important thermoplastics are polyethylene [low density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE)], polypropylene (PP), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and polystyrene [44].

How is thermoplastic made?

Thermoplastics have a simple molecular structure comprising chemically independent macromolecules. Upon heating, they are softened or melted, then shaped, formed, welded, and solidified when cooled. Multiple cycles of heating and cooling can be repeated, allowing reprocessing and recycling.

Are thermoplastics natural?

Shellac is an early natural thermoplastic – defined as a material which softens and hardens reversibly on heating and cooling. ... In theory these reversible physical changes will take place without a corresponding change in the chemical structure of the material.