View by manufacturing method
First, polymers are synthesized by polymerization or polycondensation of the starting monomers in reactors under strictly controlled temperature and pressure. To improve their properties, stabilizers, plasticizers, reinforcing fibers, flame retardants, and fillers are added. The resulting polymer mass is cooled and granulated, forming standard feedstock for processing. The granules are then processed into finished or semi-finished products using injection molding, extrusion, pressing, or 3D printing. Due to its thermoplastic nature, the material can be repeatedly heated and molded without losing its key performance characteristics.
Chemical composition
The core is made up of synthetic polymer chains based on carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes fluorine. For example, polyamides have amide groups (–CONH–) in their structure, polyoxymethylene consists of repeating units –CH₂–O–, polycarbonates contain carbonate groups (–O–CO–O–), and high-temperature plastics such as PEEK include aromatic rings and ketone bonds. To improve properties, glass or carbon fibers, mineral fillers, antioxidants, heat stabilizers, pigments, and flame retardants are added to the composition.
Type by purpose
It is widely used in various industries due to its combination of strength, light weight, and resistance to external influences. In mechanical engineering, it is used to manufacture gears, plain bearings, bushings, and housing components. In the automotive industry, such plastics are used for engine components, fuel systems, interior trim, and fasteners. In electrical engineering and electronics, they are used for insulating parts, connectors, instrument housings, and cable ducts. In medicine, thermoplastic engineering plastics are used to manufacture implants, surgical instruments, and disposable items. They are also in demand in the aerospace industry, the chemical industry, and in the manufacture of industrial equipment as a replacement for metals.
A type
Thermally conductive polymers
The country of manufacture
Ukraine