write an article on restricting use of plastic in our daily life
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In Western Europe, approximately 92 kilograms of plastic per capita are consumed annually, and this quantity is increasing. Worldwide use per capita stands at about 35 kilograms. The largest amount of plastic waste comes from the packaging industry: two-thirds generated by households and one-third by industry and commerce.
Material Science of Plastics
The mass use of plastic started in the 1950s and has steadily grown ever since. Today, more than 300 million tons of plastic are produced annually. While in Europe the production of plastic has remained relatively constant over the last decade, in developing countries in particular it continues to rise.
The popularity of plastic is due not only to its low production costs but also its numerous practical characteristics, including its low weight, acid resistance, and flexibility. In addition, plastic’s flexible properties encourage technological innovations and—particularly in the fields of medicine, building technology, and aircraft and automobile manufacturing—lead to new solutions, improvements, and comfort.
Yet the tremendous consumption of plastic also presents numerous problems. A large part of the plastic quickly ends up in the garbage. As standard plastic is not biodegradable, plastic refuse improperly disposed of pollutes our environment for decades or even centuries. Today, mountains of plastic are piling up in garbage dumps and in the natural world. As consumption increases there is an urgent need for far-sighted and holistic solutions to this problem.
The Most Important Conventional Plastics
Plastics consist of long molecular chains, known as polymers, created by linking the same repeated building element (monomer). Synthetically produced plastics are made from mineral oil, coal, or natural gas. A total of 4 percent of the worldwide production of oil and gas is destined for the manufacture of plastics.
In addition to synthetic plastics there are also the semi-synthetics that are made from natural polymers such as cellulose. Today, organic plastics made from sustainable raw materials are being produced in increasing amounts.
The most common types of plastics, known as the mass plastics, are: polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, polystyrene, PET, and polyurethane.
POLYURETHANE (PU)
Polyurethanes are formed by the polymerization of isocyanates (ester) and diols (dihydric alcohols). Depending on the production method, this plastic group can display very different properties.
PU is often produced in the form of foam. Soft foam that retains its shape is particularly suitable for upholstered furniture; hard foam is used in the building industry. This plastic can also be used in the manufacture of paints, adhesives, or elastic textile fibers. However, it is difficult to recycle and if burned releases poisonous substances (isocyanates, hydrocyanic acid).
Uses:
Mattresses, car seats, kitchen sponges, thermal insulation, rust protection in the automotive industry, coatings for furniture and floors, textiles (elastane)
POLYCARBONATE (PC)
Polycarbonates also belong to the group of polymers and are typically produced from phosgene and bisphenol A. PC is an important plastic due to its specific properties, but as it is relatively expensive, it is only used when required and is not among the mass plastics.
Polycarbonate is colorless and translucent. While it has relatively low chemical resistance, it is highly impact resistant and shatterproof. PC is thus ideal for use in the field of optics and for safety glazing. However, because it contains the substance bisphenol A, this plastic can be harmful to one’s health.
Uses:
CDs and DVDs, automotive industry, electronics, eyeglass lenses, safety helmets
POLYSTYRENE (PS)
Polystyrene is produced from the colorless liquid styrene. In a foamed form, this plastic is known under the trade name Styrofoam.
PS has a glass-like, shiny surface. It is hard and brittle, which can lead to the formation of tension cracks. As a foam, the material is primarily used as thermal insulation. PS is problematic due to carcinogenic substances, mainly in production and processing. It is also difficult to recycle.
Uses:
CD jewel cases, electric cable insulation, casings for electrical appliances, yoghurt containers, packaging foils, thermal insulation, insulating packaging material.
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