View source for Working Plastics

[[File:Thermoforming animation.gif|400px|right|Thermoforming animation]]
Since the development of early [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic '''Plastics'''], such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celluloid '''Celluloid'''], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakelite '''Bakelite'''], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poly(methyl_methacrylate) '''Perspex'''] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nylon '''Nylon'''], an ever-expanding variety now surrounds us, not only mimicking traditional or natural materials but also bringing with them particular properties and characteristics. The word ‘plastic’ is derived from ‘plastikos’, a  Greek word meaning ‘capable of being shaped or molded’.

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<span style="color: green">'''Note:''' this phrase also defines '''[[Malleability]]''' and many materials have a '''[[Young's Modulus|Plastic Stage]]''' as they are deformed. To avoid confusion, '''DT Online''' uses the term '''Plastics''' as both a singular and plural noun)</span>)''
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The almost universal use of plastics for packaging and other throw-away items is causing considerable environmental issues since they do not rot very easily. Also, most plastics are made from oil which is a diminishing resource so there is increasing demand for them to be recyclable. Much work currently therefore, is focussed on the research and development of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodegradable_plastic '''Biodegradable Plastics'''] which are derived from renewable resources.


[[Category:Skills and Processes]]