Plastics : Plastic consumer goods definition - Pachaging, household items, ... -

Plastic consumer goods definition are products made primarily from synthetic or semi-synthetic materials (polymers) designed for end-user consumption.

Synthetic materials:

Completely artificial and are created through chemical processes, some examples are:

•  Polyester : synthetic fiber made from petroleum chemicals. It's commonly used in clothing, containers, and ropes. Its key features are durability and wrinkle resistance
• Nylon : strong, elastic synthetic polymer made from petroleum products. It's used extensively in clothing, ropes, and machine parts, known for its strength and versatility
• Acrylic : synthetic fiber made from acrylonitrile. Used in clothing, blankets, and carpets, it mimics wool's texture while being quick-drying and lightweight

Semi-synthetic materials:

Natural materials that are chemically modified. They are a combination of natural and artificial processes

• Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber and it is made from wood pulp 
• Cellophane is a clear, thin film, made from cellulose and is used for packaging, wrappin
• Vulcanized rubber is a natural rubber is treated with sulfur and is more durable and elastic. It is used used in tires, shoes, industrial products

Key characteristics:

It can be mass-produced and is often petroleum-based and has customizable properties. It is generally less expensive than natural materials

Key categories:

Single-use:

• Packaging
• Disposable items
• Food containers
• Shopping bags

Durable:

• Household items
• Electronics housings
• Furniture
• Tools

Common plastic types:

• PET (bottles, packaging)
• HDPE (containers, toys)
• PVC (pipes, cards)
• LDPE (bags, films)
• PP (food containers, auto parts)
• PS (disposable cutlery, cases)

PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): clear, strong plastic used for beverage bottles, food containers. It is the most recycled plastic globally
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): stiff, strong, chemical resistant. It is used for milk jugs, shampoo bottles, toys. It is a commonly recycled plastic.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): durable, fire resistant and is used for pipes, cards, medical devices. It has limited recycling options
LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): flexible, transparent and is used for plastic bags, films, squeeze bottles. It is difficult to recycle
PP (Polypropylene): heat resistant, tough and is used for food containers, auto parts. It is getting increasingly recycled

PS (Polystyrene): rigid or foam form and is used for disposable cutlery, packaging. It is rarely recycled

Market factors:

• Environmental regulations
• Recycling capabilities
• Raw material costs
• Consumer preferences
• Sustainability trends