INTRODUCTION

What is Plastic?

Plastic is a synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solids that are moldable and can be melted to
form a range of materials with different properties. It has transformed the field of architecture,
offering innovative solutions for building design, construction, and sustainability.
History of Plastic
Plastic has been around for over a century, with the first synthetic plastic, Parkesine, invented in
1855 by Alexander Parkes. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that plastics became
widely used.

Types of Plastic

1. Thermoplastics (can be melted and reformed): polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride

(PVC)
2. Thermosets (cannot be melted and reformed): epoxy, polyurethane, silicone
3. Bioplastics (made from renewable resources): polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates
(PHA)
4. Composite plastics (combination of materials): fiberglass, carbon fiber
Uses of Plastic
1. Packaging (bags, bottles, containers)
2. Building materials (pipes, vinyl siding, windows)
3. Consumer products (toys, utensils, appliances)
4. Automotive parts
5. Medical devices
6. Textiles (clothing, upholstery)

Benefits of Plastic
1. Lightweight and durable
2. Water-resistant and corrosion-resistant
3. Versatile and flexible
4. Affordable and widely available
5. Can be recycled

Advantages of plastic
Plastic offers several advantages in building material science, including:

1. Durability: Plastic materials can withstand harsh weather conditions, chemicals, and abrasion,
making them ideal for exterior and interior applications.
2. Lightweight: Plastic materials are often lighter than traditional building materials, reducing
structural loads and transportation costs.
3. Corrosion resistance: Plastic materials resist corrosion from moisture, acids, and bases,
extending their lifespan.
4. Low maintenance: Plastic materials are easy to clean and maintain, reducing upkeep costs.
5. Water resistance: Plastic materials can withstand exposure to water, making them suitable
for bathroom and kitchen applications.
6. Thermal insulation: Plastic materials can provide thermal insulation, reducing heat transfer
and energy losses.
7. Design flexibility: Plastic materials can be molded and shaped to create complex designs and
structures.
8. Cost-effective: Plastic materials are often cheaper than traditional building materials,
reducing construction costs.
9. Sustainability: Many plastic materials are recyclable, reducing waste and environmental
impact.
10. Improved safety: Plastic materials can be designed to be shatter-resistant, reducing the risk
of injury.
Some common plastic building materials include:
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) for pipes, windows, and doors
- ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) for pipes and fittings
- Polycarbonate for roofing and glazing
- Polyethylene for insulation and packaging
- Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) for structural components

Disadvantages
1. Heat Expansion: Plastic materials expand and contract with temperature changes.
2. UV Degradation: Plastic materials degrade from prolonged UV exposure.
3. Load-Bearing Capacity: Plastic materials have limited load-bearing capacity.
4. Fire Resistance: Plastic materials can melt or burn in fires.
5. Environmental Impact: Plastic production and disposal contribute to pollution.
6. Moisture Absorption: Some plastic materials absorb moisture, leading to damage.
7. Chemical Resistance: Plastic materials may degrade from chemical exposure.
8. Aesthetics: Plastic materials may lack the natural appeal of traditional materials.
9. Lifespan: Plastic materials have varying lifespans, requiring replacement.
10. Recycling Challenges: Plastic materials can be difficult to recycle.

Best Application
1. Exterior cladding and façades
2. Windows and doors
3. Roofing and insulation
4. Wall partitions and dividers
5. Flooring and decking
6. Decorative elements
7. Structural components (beams, columns)
Some common plastic building materials include:
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) for pipes, windows, and doors
- ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) for pipes and fittings
- Polycarbonate for roofing and glazing
- Polyethylene for insulation and packaging
- Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) for structural component
FORMATION
Plastic can either be ‘synthetic’ or ‘biobased’. Synthetic plastics are derived from crude oil,
natural gas or coal. Whilst biobased plastics come from renewable products such as
carbohydrates, starch, vegetable fats and oils, bacteria and other biological substances.

The vast majority of plastic in use today is synthetic because of the ease of manufacturing
methods involved in the processing of crude oil. However, the growing demand for limited
oil-reserves is driving a need for newer plastics from renewable resources such as waste
biomass or animal-waste products from the industry.

In Europe, only a small proportion (about 4 – 6%) of oil and gas reserves goes towards the
production of plastics, with the rest used for transport, electricity, heating and other
applications.

Most of the plastic in use today is derived by the following steps:

1. Extraction of raw materials (largely crude oil and natural gas, but also coal) – these are
a complex mixture of thousands of compounds that then need to be processed.

2. Refining process transforms crude oil into different petroleum products – these are
converted to yield useful chemicals including “monomers” (a molecule that is the basic
building blocks of polymers). In the refining process, crude oil is heated in a furnace, which
is then sent to the distillation unit, where heavy crude oil separates into lighter components
called fractions. One of these, called naphtha, is the crucial compound to make a large
amount of plastic. However, there are other means, such as using gas.

Figure 1. Pictorial representation of how plastics are made (Figure is adapted from ref)

3. Polymerisation is a process in the petroleum industry where light olefin gases (gasoline)
such as ethylene, propylene, butylene (i.e., monomers) are converted into higher molecular
weight hydrocarbons (polymers). This happens when monomers are chemically bonded into
chains. There are two different mechanisms for polymerisation:

A. Addition polymerisation
The addition polymerisation reaction is when one monomer connects to the next one
(dimer) and dimer to the next one (trimer) and so on. This is achieved by introducing a
catalyst, typically a peroxide. This process is known as chain growth polymers – as it adds
one monomer unit at a time. Common examples of addition polymers are polyethylene,
polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride.

B. Condensation polymerisation
Condensation polymerisation includes joining two or more different monomers, by the
removal of small molecules such as water. It also requires a catalyst for the reaction to
occur between adjacent monomers. This is known as step growth, because you may for
example add an existing chain to another chain. Common examples of condensation
polymers are polyester and nylon.

4. Compounding/Processing

In compounding, various blends of materials are melt blended (mixed by melting) to make
formulations for plastics. Generally, an extruder of some type is used for this purpose which
is followed by pelletising the mixture. Extrusion or a different moulding process then
transforms these pellets into a finished or semi-finished product. Compounding often
occurs on a twin-screw extruder where the pellets are then processed into plastic objects of
unique design, various size, shape, colour with accurate properties according to the
predetermined conditions set in the processing machine.

Polymer vs. plastic

Figure 1
All plastics are essentially polymers, but not all the polymers are plastics.

The term polymer and monomer are derived from Greek words: where ‘poly’ means
'many', ‘mer’ means 'repeating unit' and the word ‘mono’ means 'one'. This literally means a
polymer is made from many monomer-repeating units. Polymers are larger molecules
formed by covalently joining many monomer-units together in the form of chains like pearls
on a string of pearls.

The word plastic comes from 'plasticus' (Latin for ‘capable of moulding’) and 'plastikos'
(Greek for ‘fit for moulding’). When we say plastics, we are referring to organic polymers
(synthetic or natural) of high molecular weight which are mixed with other substances.

Plastics are high molecular weight organic polymers composed of various elements such as
carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur and chlorine. They can also be produced from
silicon atom (known as silicone) along with carbon; a common example is silicone breast
implants or silicone hydrogel for optical lenses. Plastics are made up of polymeric resin
often mixed with other substances called additives.

'Plasticity 'is the term used to describe the property, feature and attribute of a material that
can deform irreversibly without breaking. Plasticity describes whether a polymer would
survive the temperature and pressure during the moulding process.

Chemistry allows us to vary different parameters to tune the properties of polymers. We can
use different elements, change the type of monomers, and rearrange them in different
patterns to change the shape of polymer, its molecular weight or other chemical/physical
properties. This allows plastics to be designed to have right properties for a specific
application.

What are hydrocarbons?

Most plastic in use today comes from hydrocarbons derived from crude oil, natural gas and
coal – fossil fuels.

What is a hydrocarbon?

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds (can be aliphatic or aromatic) made up of carbon and
hydrogen. Aliphatic hydrocarbons have no cyclic benzene rings while the aromatics have
benzene rings.

Carbon (C, atomic number = 6) has a valency of four, meaning it has four electrons in the
outermost shell. It is able to pair up with four other electrons from any element of the
periodic table to make up chemical bonds (for hydrocarbon, it will pair up with hydrogen).
Hydrogen on the other hand (H, with atomic number = 1) has only one electron in the
valence shell so four of these H-atom are ready to be paired up with C-atom by forming a
single bond to give a C-H4 molecule. CH4 molecule is called methane, which is the simplest
hydrocarbon and the first member of the Alkane family. Similarly, if two C-atoms would
bond together they can link with up to six H-atoms with three being on each C-atom to give
a chemical formula of CH3-CH3 (or C2H6) known as ethane and the series goes on as follows.

Alkane family: Methane (CH4), ethane (CH3-CH3 or C2H6), propane (CH3-CH2-CH3), butane (CH3-
CH2-CH2-CH3), pentane (CH3-CH2-CH2- CH2-CH3), hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, dodecane,
undecane and so on.

Note that this type of bond with carbon and hydrogen is a saturated bond (sigma bond
denoted as σ-bond). There can also be unsaturated bondwhere a pi bond (π-bond) is
present along with sigma bond giving carbon-carbon double bonds (alkenes) or have two π-
bonds with a sigma giving carbon-carbon triple bond (alkynes), which very much depends
on the type of hybridisation between the elements.

Alkene family: Ethylene (CH2=CH2 or C2H4), propylene (CH2=CH-CH2), 1-butylene (CH2=CH-

CH2-CH3), 2-butylene (CH3-CH=CH-CH3) and so on. (Note that the 1-butylene and 2-butylene
are isomers of butylene).

Alkyne hydrocarbons: Ethyne (CH ≡ CH or C2H2), propyne (CH≡C-CH3), 1-butyne (CH≡C-CH2-

CH3), 2-butyne (CH3-CH≡CH-CH3) and so on.

What are fossil fuels and where do they come from?

Fossil fuels are mainly crude oil, natural gas and coal that are made up of carbon, hydrogen,
nitrogen, sulphur, oxygen elements and other minerals (Figure 1, ref). The generally
accepted theory is that these hydrocarbons are formed from the remains of living-
organisms called planktons (tiny plants and animals) that existed during the Jurassic era.
The planktons have been buried deeper beneath the heavy layers of sediments in the
Earth’s mantle, due to compression from an enormous amount of heat and pressure. Dead
organisms decomposed without oxygen, which transformed them into tiny pockets of oil
and gas. Crude oil and gas then penetrate in the rocks that ultimately accumulate in
reservoirs. The oil and natural gas wells are found at the bottom of our oceans and beneath.
Coal mainly originated from dead plants.

Figure 2: Elemental composition of fossil fuels

Scientists have also questioned this theory. A recent study in Nature Geoscience from
Carnegie Institution in collaboration with Russian and Swedish colleagues revealed that the
organic matter may not be the source of heavy hydrocarbon and that they could be existing
already deep down in the Earth. Experts discovered that ethane and other heavy
hydrocarbons could be made if the pressure-temperature conditions can be mimicked with
those present deep inside the Earths core. This is to say that hydrocarbons can be made in
the upper mantle that is the layer of Earth between the crust and the core. They
demonstrate it by subjecting methane to laser heat-treatment in the upper layer of the
Earth that then transformed into hydrogen molecule, ethane, propane, petroleum ether and
graphite. The scientists then exposed ethane to the same conditions which reversibility
produced methane. Above findings indicate that these hydrocarbons might be created
naturally without the remains of plants and animals.

3. How is synthetic plastic created from crude oil?

Synthetic plastic comes from petrochemicals. When the source of oil beneath the surface of
the Earth is identified, holes are drilled through the rocks in the ground to extract oil.

Extraction of oil - Oil is pumped from underground to the surface where tankers are used
to transport the oil to the shore. Oil drilling can also take place under the ocean using
support from platforms. Different size pumps can produce between 5 - 40 litres of oil per
stroke (Figure 1).

Refining of oil - Oil is pumped through a pipeline that can be thousands of miles long and
transported to an oil refiner (Figure 1). Spillage of oil from the pipeline during transfer can
have both immediate and long-term environmental consequences but safety measures are
in place to prevent and minimise this risk.

Figure3:fractional distillation of crude oil

Distillation of crude oil and production of petrochemicals - Crude oil is a mixture of

hundreds of hydrocarbons that also contains some solids and some gaseous hydrocarbons
dissolved in it from the alkane family (mainly it is CH4 and C2H6, but it can be C3H8 or C4H10).
Crude oil is first heated into a furnace then the resultant mixture is fed as a vapour to the
fractional distillation tower. The fractional distillation column separates the mixture into
different compartments called fractions. There exists a temperature gradient in the
distillation tower where the top is cooler than the base. The mixture of liquid and vapour
fractions gets separated in the tower depending on their weight and boiling point (boiling
point is the temperature at which the liquid phase changes into gaseous). When the vapours
evaporate and meet a liquid fraction whose temperature is below the boiling point of vapor,
it partly condenses. These vapours of evaporating crude oil condense at different
temperature in the tower. Vapours (gases) of the lightest fractions (gasoline and petroleum
gas), flow to the top of the tower, intermediate weight liquid fractions (kerosene and diesel
oil distillates), lingers in the middle, heavier liquids (called gas oils) separate lower down,
while the heaviest fractions (solids) with the highest boiling points remain at the base of the
tower. Each fraction in the column contains hydrocarbons with a similar number of carbon
atoms, smaller molecules are towards the top and longer molecules nearer the bottom of
the column ). In this way, petroleum is decomposed into petroleum gas, gasoline, paraffin
(kerosene), naphtha, light oil, heavy oil, etc.

After the distillation step, the obtained long chain hydrocarbons are converted into
hydrocarbons that can then be turned into many important chemicals which we use for the
preparation of a wide range of products applicable from plastic to pharmaceuticals.

Cracking of hydrocarbon is the main process that breaks down the mixture of complex
hydrocarbons into simpler low relative molecular mass alkenes/alkanes (plus by-products)
by the means of high temperature and pressure.

Cracking can be performed into two ways: Steam cracking and catalytic cracking.

Steam cracKing uses high temperature and pressure to break the hydrocarbons long chains
without a catalyst, whilst catalytic cracking adds a catalyst which allows the process to occur
at lower temperatures and pressures.

The raw material used by the petrochemical industry is mainly naphtha and natural gas
from oil refining operation in the petrochemical feedstock. Steam cracking uses the
feedstocks from hydrocarbons mixture from various fractions such as reactant gases
(ethane, propane or butane) from natural gas, or liquids (naphtha or gas oil) (Figure 4).
Figure 4: Various chemicals obtained from fossil fuel after oil refining.
(Naphtha is a mixture of C5 to C10 hydrocarbons obtained from the distillation of crude oil).

For example, decane hydrocarbon is cracked down into products such as propylene and
heptane where the former is then used to make poly(propylene) (Figure 5).

Figure 5. Representation of Cracking of decane to convert into propylene and heptane.

Raw materials molecules are converted into monomers such as ethylene, propylene, and
butene and others. All these monomers comprise double bonds so that the carbon atoms
can subsequently react to form polymers.
Polymerisation- hydrocarbon monomers are then linked together by chemical
polymerisation mechanism to produce polymers. Polymerisation process generates thick,
viscous substances as resins, which are employed to make a plastic product. If we look at a
case of ethylene monomer here; ethylene is a gaseous hydrocarbon. When it is subjected to
heat, pressure and a certain catalyst, it joins together into long, repeating carbon chains.
These joined molecules (polymer) is a plastic resin known as polyethylene (PE).

Production of PE based plastic –poly(ethylene) is processed in a factory to make plastic

pellets. The pellets are poured into a reactor, melted into a thick liquid to cast into a mould.
The liquid cools down to harden into a solid plastic and produce a finished product.
Processing of polymer also includes the addition of plasticizers, dyes and flame-retardant
chemicals.

Types of polymerisations
Synthetic plastic is made by a reaction known as polymerisation, which can be performed in
two different ways:

Addition polymerisation: Synthesis includes adding together monomers in a long chain. One
monomer connects to the next and so on, when a catalyst is introduced, in a process known
as chain growth polymers, adding one monomer unit at a time. Some addition
polymerisation reactions are considered to create no side-products and the reaction can be
performed in the vapour phase (i.e. gas phase) dispersed in a liquid. Examples:
polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and polystyrene.

Condensation polymerisation: In this case, two monomers combine to form a dimer (two
units) by releasing a byproduct. Dimers can then join to form tetramers (four units) and so
on. These byproducts are necessary to be removed for the success of the reaction. The most
common byproduct is water, which is treated and disposed of easily. Byproducts can also be
valuable raw materials that are recycled back into the feedstream.

Examples: Nylon (polyamide), polyester and polyurethane.

How is plastic created from naphtha?

Plastic is often created from naphtha. Ethylene and propylene, for example, are the main
raw material for oil-based plastic coming from Naphtha.
What is Naphtha?
There are different types of naphtha. It is a term used to describe a group of volatile
mixtures of liquid hydrocarbons, obtained by the distillation of crude oil. It is a mixture of
C5 to C10 hydrocarbons.

Naphtha is decomposed thermally at high temperature (~800 °C) in a steam cracker in

presence of water vapor where it splits into light hydrocarbons known as major
intermediaries. These are olefins and aromatics. Among the olefins, there is C 2 (ethylene),
C3 (propylene), C4 (butane and butadiene). The aromatics consist of benzene, toluene and
xylene. These small molecules are linked together by into long molecular chains called
polymers. When a polymer comes out of the chemical factory they it is still not in the form
of plastic – they are in the form of granules or powders (or liquids). Before they can become
an everyday use plastic they need to undergo a series of transformations. They are
kneaded, heated, melted, and cooled into objects of various shape, size colour with precise
properties according to the processing tubes.

For instance, for polymerisation of ethylene into polyethylene (PE), initiators are added to
start the chain reaction, only after the formation of PE, it is sent for processing by addition
of some chemicals (antioxidants and stabilisers). After which an extruder convertsn PE into
strings, thereafter grinders convert it into PE pellets. Factories then melt them into final
products.

What is the main ingredient in plastic?

The main ingredient in most plastic material is a derivative from crude oil and natural gas.

There are many different types of plastics – clear, cloudy, solid colour, flexible, rigid, soft, etc.

Plastic products are often a polymer resin which is then then mixed with a blend of additives
(See polymer vs. plastic). The additives are important as each of them are used to provide
plastic with targeted optimum properties such as toughness, flexibility, elasticity, colour or
to make them safer and hygienic to use for a particular application (ref).

What type of plastic a product is made from can be sometimes be identified by looking at
the number at the bottom of plastic containers. Some of the main types of plastic and the
parent monomer is given below (Table 1). This table shows the types of plastic and the
monomers that make up the plastic.

Table 1. Main polymer types, monomers and its chemical structures

 Resin
identificati Polymers Monomers
on code

♳ Polyethylene
terephthalate
(PET)

PETE
Ethylene glycol and Dimethyl terephthalate

♴ High-density
polyethylene

(HDPE)
Ethylene (CH2=CH2)

*(lesser branching between polymer chains)

HDPE

♵ Polyvinyl
chloride

(PVC)
Vinyl chloride (CH2=CH-Cl)

PVC

♶ Low-density
polyethylene

(LDPE)
Ethylene (CH2=CH2)

*(excessive branching)

LDPE

♷ Polypropylen
e

(PP)
Propylene (CH3-CH=CH2)

PP
 ♸ Polystyrene

(PS)

PS
Styrene

Other plastics

♹
including
acrylic,
Different monomers are used for a particular polymer.
polycarbonat
es,
For instance, PLA made from Lactic acid
polylactic acid
(PLA), fibres,
Others
nylon

The monomer used in LDPE and HDPE is ethylene but there is a difference in the degree of
branching.

Ref: https://www.bpf.co.uk/plastipedia/how-is-plastic-
made.aspx#:~:text=Polymerisation%20process%20generates%20thick%2C%20viscous,into%20long%2
C%20repeating%20carbon%20chains.

SUMMARY:
Plastic is a versatile and widely used material in construction due to its durability, flexibility, and cost-
effectiveness. The formation of plastic as a building material involves several key steps:

1. Polymerization: Plastic is made from polymers, which are long chains of molecules. The process
starts with the polymerization of monomers, which are small molecules, to form these long chains.

2. Additives: Various additives such as plasticizers, stabilizers, colorants, and fillers are mixed with
the polymer to enhance its properties, such as flexibility, strength, and color.

3. Molding: The plastic material is then shaped into the desired form through processes like injection
molding, extrusion, or compression molding. These processes involve heating the plastic to a molten
state and then shaping it using molds.

4. Cooling and Solidification: Once the plastic has been molded into the desired shape, it is cooled
and solidified to retain the shape and structure.

5. Quality Control: Quality control measures are implemented to ensure that the plastic material
meets the required standards for strength, durability, and other properties.
Overall, the formation of plastic as a building material involves a combination of chemical processes,
additives, shaping techniques, and quality control measures to produce a material that is suitable for
various construction applications.

The answer to your question is that plastic as a building material is formed through processes like
polymerization, addition of additives, molding, cooling, and quality control measures.
CHARACTERISTICS

Plastics are non reactive

Plastics are considered non-reactive because they are composed of long chains of molecules called
polymers that are generally stable and do not easily react with other substances. This stability is due
to the strong covalent bonds that hold the polymer chains together, making plastics resistant to
chemical reactions with most acids, bases, and other chemicals.

Figure: Plastics do not react with air, acids, or bases, as shown in the first image. The second image
shows that they are also not affected by extreme environments like that of the ocean.

Additionally, many plastics are designed to be inert and do not easily break down when exposed to
environmental factors like moisture, sunlight, or temperature changes. This inertness contributes to
the durability and longevity of plastic materials, making them suitable for various applications where
reactivity could be a concern.

In summary, the non-reactivity of plastics is primarily attributed to the stable chemical structure of
polymer chains and their resistance to chemical reactions, which make them valuable as materials in
many industries, including construction, packaging, and manufacturing.

Plastics are considered non-reactive due to their stable molecular structure and resistance to
chemical reactions with other substances.

Plastics are lightweight, durable and strong

Plastics are lightweight, durable, and strong due to their unique chemical composition and structure.
The characteristics that make plastics lightweight, durable, and strong include:
1. Lightweight: Plastics are composed of polymers, which are long chains of molecules. The
molecular structure of plastics is such that they have a low density, making them lightweight
compared to many other materials like metals or glass. This property is advantageous in applications
where weight is a concern, such as in transportation or packaging.

2. Durable: Plastics are known for their durability and ability to withstand wear and tear. The long
polymer chains in plastics provide strength and resilience, making them resistant to impact, bending,
and deformation. Additionally, plastics are often resistant to corrosion, moisture, and chemicals,
further enhancing their durability.

3. Strong: Despite being lightweight, plastics can be engineered to be exceptionally strong. By

adjusting the composition of the polymers, adding reinforcing fibers, or using specific manufacturing
processes, plastics can exhibit high tensile strength, impact resistance, and structural integrity. This
strength makes plastics suitable for a wide range of applications, from construction to automotive
components.

In summary, the lightweight, durable, and strong properties of plastics stem from their molecular
structure, which allows for versatility in design, performance, and application across various
industries. Plastics are lightweight, durable, and strong due to their low density, resilience, and ability
to be engineered for specific strength requirements.

Plastics are poor conductors of heat and electricity

Plastics are considered poor conductors of heat and electricity due to their molecular structure and
composition. Unlike metals, which have free electrons that allow for the easy flow of heat and
electricity, plastics consist of long polymer chains that do not have the same conductivity properties.

When it comes to heat conduction, plastics have low thermal conductivity because the polymer
chains are not efficient at transferring heat energy. This property makes plastics useful in applications
where insulation is needed to prevent the loss or transfer of heat, such as in building materials or
food packaging.

Regarding electrical conductivity, plastics are generally insulators rather than conductors. The long
chains of molecules in plastics do not readily allow the flow of electrons, making them poor
conductors of electricity. This insulating property is advantageous in electrical applications where the
prevention of electrical current flow is necessary to avoid short circuits or electrical hazards.

Plastics are commonly used in buildings for insulation purposes due to their poor conductivity of
heat and electricity. Their ability to act as insulators helps in maintaining stable indoor temperatures
by preventing heat loss or gain through walls, roofs, and floors. Additionally, plastics are lightweight
and durable, making them easy to work with and resistant to environmental factors, which further
contributes to their suitability for use in construction and building materials.

The poor conductivity of heat and electricity in plastics, along with their lightweight and durable
nature, makes them valuable materials for insulation and construction applications in buildings.

The reason plastics are used in buildings is because of their insulating properties, which help regulate
indoor temperatures and contribute to energy efficiency.
In summary, the poor conductivity of heat and electricity in plastics is a result of their molecular
structure, which limits the movement of heat energy and electrons. This property makes plastics
valuable in various industries where insulation and non-conductivity are required.

Plastics are Non-Biodegradable

The mass production of plastic started in 1950, and from then onwards, billions of tonnes of plastics
have been thrown away, out of which only a few million tonnes of plastic is recycled while the rest is
added to landfills. Plastics are non-biodegradable as they do not decompose into a harmless form by
the action of microorganisms such as bacteria. In addition to plastics, tin, aluminum, and other metal
cans take a few hundred years to decompose and are non-biodegradable. In contrast to plastics,
peels of vegetables and fruits can decompose in 1 to 2 weeks, and wood can take 10 to 15 years to
decompose.
Plastic in landfills takes hundreds of years to photodegrade (degrade in the presence of sunlight).
However, even the tiny particles of plastics formed after photodegradation are toxic to the
environment and contaminate the soil and waterways. Plastics, when burnt, release harmful
chemicals into the atmospherethat causes air pollution. Therefore, all of us should follow the 5 R
principle to reduce the effect of pollution caused by plastics. Reuse, Recycle, Reduce, Recover, and
Refuse are the 5 R's of the principle, as shown in the Figure below.

Figure 5: The 5 r’s principle

Reusing includes using the same item again for the same function and also using an item again for a
new function. Reuse can have both economic and environmental benefits. New packaging
regulations are helping society to move towards these goals. For example, fruit juice containers can
be reused to water plants.
Recycling involves processing used materials to make them suitable for other uses. That usually
means taking a used item, breaking it down, and reusing the pieces. Even though recycling requires
extra energy, it often uses things that are broken, worn out, or cannot be reused. Plastics such as
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
can be recycled easily. Recycling plastics includes melting plastic that can be reformed into different
items, forming the same quality material such as recycle of plastic bottles into new plastic bottles;
plastic bottles can also be recycled into some other thing such as a plastic bag.
Reducing means decreasing the amount of waste we create. That could also mean cutting down on
the use of natural resources. In addition, many ways to reduce usage also result in saving money.
Plastic use can be reduced by using jute or cotton bags for shopping instead of plastic bags and by
replacing plastic containers with steel or glass containers.
Recovering means transforming waste material into a usable form. Polycarbonate, used in eye lenses,
medical devices, protective gear, and composite plastics, is nonrecyclable. These non-recyclable
plastics can be transformed into fuel that can be used as an alternative energy source.
Refusing means avoiding the use of the material. The use of plastic items such as straws, plastic
cutlery, synthetic fibers, clothes, etc., can be avoided. Instead, one can use alternative paper straws,
cutlery made of plant leaves, and clothes made of natural fibers such as cotton and wool. Paper takes
10 to 30 days to biodegrade; cotton cloth takes 2 to 5 months, and woolen clothes take around one
year.

Plastics are versatile

Plastics are known for their versatility, which stems from their wide range of properties and
applications. They can be molded into various shapes and forms, making them adaptable to different
uses across industries. Additionally, plastics can be transparent, translucent, or opaque, allowing for
diverse aesthetic options in design and manufacturing.

Furthermore, plastics exhibit properties such as flexibility, durability, lightweight nature, and
resistance to chemicals and corrosion. These characteristics make plastics suitable for a vast array of
applications, including packaging, construction, automotive, electronics, healthcare, and many more.

The ability of plastics to be easily modified through additives and processing techniques enhances
their versatility. By adjusting the composition and manufacturing processes, plastics can be tailored
to meet specific requirements such as strength, flexibility, color, and UV resistance.

In summary, the versatility of plastics arises from their ability to be molded into different shapes,
their diverse properties, and the ease with which they can be customized for various applications
across industries.

Plastics are flexible

Plastics are known for their flexibility, which is one of their key properties that makes them versatile
materials. The flexibility of plastics allows them to be easily molded and shaped into a wide range of
forms, from soft and pliable materials to rigid and durable structures. This characteristic makes
plastics suitable for applications where bend-ability and adaptability are required, such as in
packaging, textiles, medical devices, and consumer products.
The molecular structure of plastics, consisting of long polymer chains, provides them with the ability
to deform under stress and return to their original shape once the force is removed. This resilience to
deformation enables plastics to withstand bending, stretching, and compression without breaking,
making them durable and long-lasting materials.

Moreover, the flexibility of plastics can be further enhanced through the addition of plasticizers,
which are substances that improve the flexibility and workability of plastics. By adjusting the
composition of plastics, manufacturers can tailor the flexibility of the material to suit specific
applications and requirements.

In summary, the flexibility of plastics is a crucial property that allows them to be easily molded,
shaped, and adapted for various uses, making them indispensable in a wide range of industries and
applications.

Cost- effective

Plastics are known for being cost-effective materials due to several factors. One of the key reasons
for the low cost of plastics is their abundance and availability in the market. The raw materials used
to produce plastics, such as petroleum and natural gas, are relatively inexpensive and widely
accessible, contributing to the affordability of plastic production.

Additionally, the manufacturing process of plastics is efficient and scalable, allowing for large-scale
production at a low cost per unit. The versatility of plastics also plays a role in their cost-
effectiveness, as they can be easily molded, extruded, or formed into various shapes and sizes,
reducing production waste and maximizing material usage.

Furthermore, the lightweight nature of plastics results in lower transportation costs compared to
heavier materials, making them a cost-efficient choice for industries that require shipping and
logistics. The durability and longevity of plastics also contribute to their low cost over the product's
lifecycle, as they often require minimal maintenance and have a long service life.

In summary, the low cost of plastics is attributed to their abundant raw materials, efficient
manufacturing processes, versatility in production, lightweight nature for transportation savings, and
durability for long-term cost-effectiveness.

Summary
Plastic possesses several characteristic properties that contribute to its widespread
use and versatility. Some of these key characteristics include:

1. Flexibility: Plastic is highly flexible and can be easily molded or shaped into
various forms, allowing for a wide range of applications.
2. Durability: Plastics are known for their durability and resistance to wear, tear, and
impact. They can withstand harsh environmental conditions and have a long
lifespan.
3. Lightweight: Plastics are generally lightweight materials, making them
advantageous for applications where weight reduction is desired, such as in
transportation or packaging.
4. Insulation: Plastics exhibit good electrical and thermal insulation properties,
making them suitable for use in electrical components, wiring, and other applications
requiring insulation.
5. Chemical Resistance: Many plastics have excellent resistance to chemicals,
acids, and solvents, making them suitable for storing and transporting various
substances.
6. Versatility: Plastics can be engineered to have a wide range of properties,
including hardness, flexibility, transparency, and more. This versatility allows them to
be tailored for specific applications.
7. Low Cost: Plastics are generally cost-effective to produce compared to other
materials, making them economically viable for large-scale manufacturing.
8. Water Resistance: Plastics are often water-resistant or waterproof, making them
suitable for applications such as plumbing, outdoor equipment, and packaging.
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Plastic is a versatile building material that offers various functional requirements, making it a popular
choice in construction. Some of the key functional requirements of plastic as a building material
include:

1.Durability: Plastic is known for its durability, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions,
moisture, and chemicals. It is resistant to rotting, corrosion, and decay, making it a long-lasting
building material.

2. Lightweight: Plastic is lightweight compared to traditional building materials like wood, metal, or
concrete. This characteristic makes it easier to transport, handle, and install, reducing labor and
construction costs.

3. Insulation: Plastic provides excellent thermal and sound insulation properties. It helps regulate
indoor temperatures by keeping heat in during cold weather and out during hot weather.
Additionally, plastic helps reduce noise transmission, creating a quieter indoor environment.

4. Versatility: Plastic is available in various forms, such as sheets, pipes, panels, and composites,
offering versatility in construction applications. It can be molded into different shapes and sizes to
suit specific building requirements.
5. Low Maintenance: Plastic requires minimal maintenance compared to other building materials. It
is easy to clean, resistant to pests, and does not require painting or sealing, reducing long-term
maintenance costs.

6. Cost-Effective: Plastic is generally an affordable building material, making it a cost-effective choice

for construction projects. Its lightweight nature also reduces transportation costs.

7. Design Flexibility: Plastic can be easily molded and shaped into complex designs, allowing for
creativity and flexibility in architectural applications. It offers design freedom and customization
options for various building components.

Overall, the functional requirements of plastic as a building material include durability, lightweight,
insulation, versatility, low maintenance, cost-effectiveness, and design flexibility.

APPLICATION OF PLASTICS IN BUILDING

STRUCTURAL COMPONENT :

1. Plastic lumber: Made from recycled or virgin plastics, it's resistant to rot, insects, and
moisture.
2. Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP): Combines plastic fibers with resin, offering high strength-to-
weight ratio.
3. Pultruded profiles: Continuous manufacturing process creates strong, lightweight structural
components.

BENEFITS:

1. Corrosion resistance
2. Low maintenance
3. High durability
4. Lightweight
5. Design flexibility

EXTERIOR CLADING AND FACADES :

1. Vinyl siding: Weather-resistant, easy to install, and affordable.

2. Aluminum-plastic composite panels: Combines strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
3. ETFE foil: Lightweight, transparent, and self-cleaning.

BENEFITS:

1. Weather resistance
2. Energy efficiency
3. Reduced maintenance
4. Improved aesthetics
5. UV resistance

INSULATION AND WEATHERPROOFING:

1. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam: Cost-effective, thermal insulation.

2. Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam: High-performance insulation for energy efficiency.
3. Waterproofing membranes: Protects structures from moisture.

BENEFITS:

1. Energy efficiency
2. Moisture protection
3. Reduced heat transfer
4. Increased comfort
5. Extended lifespan

WINDOWS AND DOORS:

1. UPVC windows and doors: Energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and durable.

2. Plastic-glazed windows: Lightweight, shatter-resistant alternatives.

BENEFITS:

1. Energy efficiency
2. Reduced maintenance
3. Improved security
4. Increased natural light
5. Durability

ROOFING:

1. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing: Durable, UV-resistant membranes.

2. PVC roofing: Flexible, waterproof membranes.

BENEFITS:

1. Durability
2. UV resistance
3. Waterproofing
4. Energy efficiency
5. Low maintenance
INTERIOR FINISHING:

1. Plastic-based flooring: Durable, easy-to-maintain.

2. Acrylic and polyester-based coatings: Wall finishes, paints.
BENEFITS
1. Durability
2. Easy maintenance
3. Aesthetic appeal
4. Resistance to scratches and fading
5. Improved indoor air quality

SUSTAINABLE APPLICATIONS:

1. Recycled plastic lumber: Reduces waste, conserves resources.

2. Bioplastics: Biodegradable, renewable alternatives.
3. Energy-efficient plastics: Reduces thermal conductivity, minimizes heat transfer.

Challenges And Future Directions

1. Durability and longevity
2. Recyclability and waste management
3. Fire resistance and safety
4. Integration with emerging technologies (e.g., 3D printing)
5. Environmental impact and sustainability
MAINTENANCE OF PLASTIC
Plastic building materials require regular maintenance to ensure durability, performance, and
sustainability. This overview explores the scientific aspects of maintaining plastic building
materials

Fig 1.1

I.DEGRADABLE METHOD

• UV Degradation: UV radiation breaks polymer chains, causing discoloration,

brittleness, and
cracking.
• Thermal Degradation: Temperature fluctuations lead to expansion, contraction, and
potential cracking.
• Chemical Degradation: Exposure to chemicals, such as cleaning agents or pollutants,
can
damage plastic materials.
• Mechanical Degradation: Wear and tear from usage, weathering, or physical stress.
Fig 2.1

II. MAINTENANCE STRATEGIES

• Cleaning: Remove dirt, grime, and pollutants using mild soap and water.
• Coatings and Sealants: Apply protective layers to prevent UV, chemical, and mechanical
degradation.
• Inspection and Repair: Regularly inspect for damage and repair or replace affected areas.
• Protection from Weathering: Use UV-stabilized materials, and design structures to minimize
Exposure.

Fig 2.2

III. MATERIAL-SPECIFIC MAINTENANCE

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Clean with mild soap, avoid abrasive materials.
• UPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride): Regularly inspect for UV degradation.
• Polycarbonate (PC): Avoid chemical cleaning agents.
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): Use gentle cleaning methods.
Fig 3.1

IV. ADVANCED MAINTENANCE TECHNIQUES

• Nanocoatings: Apply thin, protective layers to enhance durability.

• Self-Healing Materials: Incorporate materials that repair cracks and damage.
• Smart Materials: Integrate sensors and monitoring systems.

CONCLUSION
Effective maintenance of plastic building materials requires understanding degradation
mechanisms, material properties, and environmental factors. By implementing regular cleaning,
inspection, and protection strategies, and leveraging advanced technologies, builders and
owners can:

1. Extend material lifespan

2. Enhance performance and durability
3. Reduce maintenance costs
4. Improve sustainability
5. Ensure safety and structural integrity

RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Develop material-specific maintenance protocols.
2. Incorporate advanced maintenance technologies.
3. Conduct regular inspections and repairs.
4. Use UV-stabilized and weather-resistant materials.
5. Consider lifecycle assessment and environmental impact.