The word plastic derives from the Ancient Greek πλαστικός (plastikos), meaning "capable of being shaped or molded," which itself comes from πλαστός (plastos), meaning "molded" or "formed." [10] In modern usage, the word plastic most commonly refers to the solid synthetic products of petrochemical -derived manufacturing. [11] The word plasticity, as a noun, specifically refers ...
Plastic, polymeric material that has the capability of being molded or shaped. This property of plasticity, often found in combination with other special properties such as low density, low electrical conductivity, transparency, and toughness, allows plastics to be made into a great variety of products.
Plastic pollution is growing a threat to ecosystems, the climate and our own health. What can be done to prevent it?
Learn about plastic, a versatile synthetic material used in various applications, and its properties for production parts and prototypes.
Read our explainer to find out more about the plastic pollution crisis: Why is plastic pollution such a problem? Affordable, durable and flexible, plastic pervades modern life, appearing in everything from packaging to clothes to beauty products.
Much of the planet is swimming in discarded plastic, which is harming animal and possibly human health. Can plastic pollution be cleaned up?
Plastic production has sharply increased over the last 70 years. In 1950, the world produced just two million tonnes. It now produces over 450 million tonnes. Plastic has added much value to our lives: it’s a cheap, versatile, and sterile material used in various applications, including construction, home appliances, medical instruments, and food packaging. However, when plastic waste is ...
The plastic you see lying around might disappear in around 500 years. But it really just turns into millions of tiny bits of microplastic that get everywhere and cause problems for humans, animals ...