Today, most of the plastic we use is synthetic. This is due to the ease with which it can be produced using crude oil. But, as oil reserves continue to diminish, new plastics are needed. Renewable resources, such as waste biomass or animal waste, can be used to produce plastics. Like crude oil, plastic raw materials consist of thousands of different compounds. This process produces polymers, which are highly desirable. The result is plastic that is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
The history of plastics can be traced to a number of discoveries. American chemist Wallace Carothers accidentally discovers a strange new material, nylon. Another inventor is Richard G. Drew, who develops transparent “Scotch” tape. Another chemist, German Eduard Simon, accidentally discovers polystyrene. In the year 2002, Richard Palmer files a patent for a material that absorbs energy. This energy-absorbing material is called D3O.
The discovery of plastics came about during the 1800s, when demand for materials began to grow. Initially, cellulose, a naturally occurring substance in plants and trees, was used to make plastics. These polymers were heated with chemicals to form a durable material. While plastics come from various sources, the majority of these raw materials are hydrocarbons, a type of gas, oil, and coal. Among the many varieties, ethylene is the most popular.
The science behind plastics is relatively simple, but complex. It’s important to remember that plastics are made from chains of like molecules linked together. These compounds are called polymers, and their names begin with the letters “poly” or “polymer.” These molecules are usually made of carbon, hydrogen, or oxygen, though they can also contain other substances, such as fluorine, phosphorous, or silicon. This property makes them extremely versatile.
Several types of plastics are used in food and drink packaging. Food-grade plastics are chemically resistant and inert, and have no adverse effects on health. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews the materials that come into contact with food. It uses scientific tests to determine whether the substances transferred may pose a risk to human health. However, some substances can be harmful to the environment and should be avoided where possible.