Thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic are popular materials used in many fields to serve human life. However, if we do not have experience and do not understand too much about industrial plastics, it will not be easy to distinguish between these two types of plastics. Moreover, you will need clarification when choosing them. Therefore, EuroPlas will provide detailed information and differences between these two materials!
Picture 1 Thermosets vs Thermoplastics Which one to choose
1. Overview of Thermoplastic
In general, industrial plastics are known as plastics or polymers. This is a material synthesized from macromolecular compounds.
Industrial plastics are commonly used to produce household or industrial items associated with human life, such as electrical pipes, raincoats, and wardrobe shelves. In particular, plastic materials have two types: thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic.
1.1 Definition of thermoplastic
Thermoplastics are a type of polymer that undergo a phase transition from solid to liquid when exposed to elevated temperatures and subsequently solidify when the temperature decreases. Hence, this particular industrial plastic exhibits a notable degree of design versatility and can be repeatedly utilized. Thermoplastic exhibits similarities to glass. Furthermore, when subjected to freezing conditions, the substance tends to fracture into smaller fragments.
Picture 2 Thermoplastic is a type of polymer that undergo a phase transition from solid to liquid when exposed to elevated temperatures.
Moreover, the production of synthetic thermoplastic materials involves the polymerization process, which entails the connection of discrete particles (monomers) to form a chain-like structure. From just a single polymer chain, thousands of monomers can be created. Covalent solid bonds can link atoms together, while the forces between polymer chains are weak.
1.2 Characteristics of thermoplastic
At present, thermoplastic materials exhibit diverse designs characterized by varying crystal densities and topologies. The industry currently encompasses three thermoplastics that are widely recognized for their popularity: Polyurethane, Polycarbonate, and Acrylic.
Mostly, the molecular weight in thermoplastic is very high. Chemical properties will not change when exposed to high temperatures, and only their physical properties will disappear under the influence of temperature. This means the materials will become softer and more pliable but quickly return to their solid state with cold water.
While the discovery of flexible polymer plastic dates back to the mid-1800s, its widespread popularity and comprehensive utilization only occurred during the 20th century. The most noteworthy characteristic of this material lies in its remarkable flexibility in terms of physical properties.
Nevertheless, the significance of durability cannot be overstated in light of the requirement for liquefaction. Furthermore, thermoplastics emit a foul odor upon exposure to high temperatures. Thermoplastic offers cost-saving benefits and contributes to environmental sustainability by facilitating multiple recycling phases. Thermoplastic is extensively employed across several industries, hence substantiating their widespread utilization.
1.3 Common application of thermoplastic
Each thermoplastic will have its advantages and characteristics. Therefore, they will also be optimized in each different product and field. You can differentiate based on the types of symbols engraved on the base of the plastic product. For instances:
- PET plastic (Polyethylene Terephthalate): They are used in the bottling and textile industries. PET thermoplastic is tested to be safe for consumer health and is suitable for products that come into direct contact with food.
- PS (Polystyrene) Thermoplastic: Polymerized styrene thermoplastic is manufactured using the stiten process and is recyclable several times, even after prolonged consumption. This type of plastic usually exists in a complex form, has no unpleasant odor, and is transparent in color under normal conditions. Specifically, polystyrene (PS) plastic is very affordable due to its ease of blending and ability to undergo various molding techniques. Because of its notable water resistance, this material finds application in producing plastic eating utensils, children's toys, and plastic covers for CDs or DVDs.
Picture 3 Thermoplastics are used in the production of popular plastic products such as tables and chairs
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Thermoplastic: Depending on the composition, this type of plastic can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -55 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius. Therefore, flexibility and durability are two fundamental attributes. They are commonly used in the construction and medical fields, such as: cables, metal cladding, water pipes, dialysis equipment, intravenous bags, or respiratory tubes.
- PP - Polypropylene Thermoplastic: The material stands out for its low price and is colorless and odorless. However, PP thermoplastic cannot withstand temperatures for too long; the average temperature this material can meet is 130 - 170 degrees Celsius. Besides, PP thermoplastic is also waterproof with high hardness, making it very difficult to stretch or deform under significant impact. Therefore, PP plastic is used in the printing, food, medical and fast-moving consumer goods industries.
In general, thermoplastics make products close to human life and are indispensable materials in many fields.
Picture 4 Thermoplastic is used in the production of car materials
2. Overview of thermosetting
The utilization of thermosetting and thermoplastic materials is contingent upon their respective advantages, which are determined by their application's specific purpose and requirements.Thermosetting plastics emerged concurrently with thermoplastics; however, they gained earlier prominence in the commercial sphere.
2.1 Definition of thermosetting
Thermosetting can undergo a three-dimensional transformation as a result of chemical processes. Also, thermosetting plastics cannot melt or dissolve back to their original state. Initially, the element will exist in a liquid phase. The material will progressively increase in hardness following exposure to pressure and elevated temperatures.
Picture 5 Thermosetting can undergo a three-dimensional transformation as a result of chemical processes.
The solid condition of the plastic will persist indefinitely upon cooling. Hence, it may be concluded that this particular material does not possess the recyclability characteristic exhibited by thermosetting.
In addition, the process of melting thermosetting materials is accompanied by releasing a highly disagreeable odor. The plastic line also exhibits a shortcoming in terms of its flexibility. However, this particular form of plastic continues to show numerous exceptional properties and finds application in specific heavy industries.
2.2 Characteristics of thermosetting
Thermosetting displays superior longevity and endurance compared to thermoplastics, as they maintain their structural integrity even after prolonged utilization. Due to their inherent permanence in the solid state, these entities possess the capacity to endure external forces and mitigate any harm.
The most memorable and optimal feature of thermosetting polymers is that they do not deform in physical properties under the impact of high temperatures.
Meanwhile, thermoplastics will quickly melt and become much softer. That is why thermosetting plastics make products that need durability, solidity, and large size.
Picture 6 Thermosetting's physical properties do not change under the influence of high temperatures
Due to their remarkable advantage, thermosetting polymers possess the potential to substitute specific metal applications, thus facilitating cost savings for organizations.
The production cost of thermosetting plastics will also be lower than metals. In addition, solid polymer resin exhibits low thermal conductivity and possesses the necessary surface quality.
The material is manufactured with diverse styles and colors, which serves as an appealing aspect that captivates buyers. Thermosetting polymers provide exceptional water and corrosion resistance, satisfying the stringent requirements of heavy industrial manufacturing.
2.3 Applications of thermosetting
Several thermosetting polymers that are widely used in various industries are Polycarbonate (PC) plastic, Polyamide (PA) plastic, Epoxy plastic or Epoxy Resin, and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic. Each type will be utilized across several production sectors, encompassing various businesses. For example:
- PC - Polycarbonate Plastic: The polymer reveals a high level of transparency and provides superior air permeability compared to PVC or PE. Consequently, polycarbonate (PC) is employed in the manufacturing process of automotive glass. The PC material has high thermal stability, overcoming temperatures up to 100 degrees Celsius. Additionally, it demonstrates commendable resistance to corrosion and remains inert when exposed to various chemical constituents found in food.
Picture 7 The applications of PC Thermoplastic
- PA - Polyamide Thermosetting: The material is commonly used in the marine and automotive sectors or the production of accessories such as friction bearings and gears because it has low friction, high hardness, and the ability to withstand lubricating oils and heat insulation stable electricity.
- Epoxy or Epoxy Resin: When placed under freezing temperatures, this particular plastic exhibits a remarkable ability to establish a highly resilient and nearly impervious connection. Epoxy thermosetting resin can be readily combined with various pigments to create three-dimensional artworks, jewelry embellishments, or adhesive compounds. Furthermore, plastics are frequently employed in adhesive applications, including their use in the manufacturing of skateboards.
- ABS - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Thermosetting: Thermosetting plastics stand out for their toughness and impact resistance, as well as not changing shape significantly when exposed to high temperatures. Water resistance and electrical insulation are also strong points of ABS material. Therefore, it makes electrical panels, water pipes, phone cases, refrigeration equipment, or packaging.
Picture 8 The ABS Thermosetting is used to product children's toys such as Lego.
3. Seven outstanding differences between thermosetting vs thermoplastic
| Main Features |
Thermosetting |
Thermoplastic |
| Molecular Form: |
The monomers will exist in fibrous form and will not bond before heating with high temperatures.
The monomers will form a strong bond that cannot be broken after heating.
|
The resin is in a polymeric structure, with individual monomer chains that are not chemically bonded.
As a result, the process of reusing and altering the shape with the use of heat is relatively straightforward.
|
| Number of molecules in ingredients: |
The number of molecules in a thermosetting resin will be at least over 10,000 |
10,000 - 1,000,000 would be the average number of molecules present in thermoplastic |
| Heat resistance: |
High: thermosetting will not be able to return to its original state after molding.
Therefore, plastic will affect product quality if its heat resistance is too low
|
Low: thermoplastic needs to go through a liquefaction process before use, so heat resistance is almost non-existent. |
| Durability: |
This plastic line is exceptionally effective against heat and oxidation.
Therefore, it is often used for products heavily exposed to outdoor conditions and harsh climates.
|
Meanwhile, thermoplastic will need to incorporate some additives and modern technology to increase durability. |
| Mechanical properties: |
Physical properties are hard and quite brittle. |
Physical properties are softness and flexibility. Because of this, flexibility will also be higher than thermosetting plastics. |
| Casting ability: |
Thermosetting plastics cannot be recycled or reheated because their chemical properties are changed after the manufacturing process. |
Thermoplastics are easily molded or recycled. Therefore, the ability to reuse is better. |
Picture 9 The differences in chemical structure between Thermoplastic and Thermosetting
4. Conclusion
EuroPlas has sent readers the most useful and detailed information about two popular industrial plastic materials, thermoplastic and thermosetting plastic. We hope that the article will provide interesting and useful knowledge in everyday life. Please continue to follow EuroPlas to update the latest news about "Plastic World"!