Plastic Classification Systems

​1.Plastics are primarily classified by resin behavior during manufacturing:

2.Thermoplastics: Reversibly soften when heated (e.g., polyethylene, PVC)

Thermosets: Irreversibly cure when heated (e.g., phenolic resins)

3.Application-Based Classification:

4.General-Purpose: High-volume, low-cost commodities (includes ABS)

5.Engineering Plastics: Superior mechanical/thermal properties (polyamide, polyester, PC, POM)

6.Specialty Plastics: Tailored for specific performance requirements