Classification Of Plastic Products

Based on their properties after heating

Thermosetting Plastics: These plastics are characterized by solidifying into their final form at a specific temperature and time, or after the addition of a curing agent.

Cureable plastics are hard, insoluble in any solvent, and cannot be softened again by heating. Excessive heating will cause them to decompose.

Thermoplastic Plastics: These plastics soften when heated and harden when cooled. During processing, they generally undergo only physical changes while retaining their chemical properties.

By Application

General-Purpose Plastics: These plastics are characterized by high production volume, wide application, and low price. They account for approximately 80% of total plastic production. Major varieties include: polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, phenolic and amino plastics, etc.

Engineering Plastics: These generally refer to plastics that can be used as structural materials in engineering technology. The significant characteristics of these plastics are high mechanical strength, strong resistance to chemical corrosion and high temperature resistance, allowing them to replace metals or be used for other special purposes. Major varieties include: polyamide, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, ABS, polyphenylene ether, fluoroplastics, etc.

Classification by Flammability

Flammable Plastics: These plastics burn intensely when exposed to an open flame and are difficult to extinguish. Examples include nitrocellulose plastics. These plastics are classified as hazardous materials.

Combustible Plastics: These plastics do not self-extinguish when exposed to an open flame, but burn relatively quickly. Examples include polyethylene and polypropylene.

Flame-Retardant Plastics: These plastics can burn in a strong open flame but extinguish quickly after the flame is removed. Examples include phenolic plastics, cellulose acetate plastics, and polyvinyl chloride plastics.