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Thermoplastics

Innovation and progress: Discover our exhibitors in the field of thermoplastics

Thermoplastics are among the most commonly used plastics in modern industry. These plastics are characterised by their ability to deform when heated and return to their original hardness and shape after cooling. This process of ‘thermal moulding’ can be repeated as often as required, which makes thermoplastics extremely flexible materials in production. The most widely used thermoplastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS).

Thermoplastics play a central role in the plastics industry. They are not only indispensable for the production of everyday objects such as packaging, bottles and toys, but are also used in technical applications such as automotive parts, building components and electrical appliances. Their popularity is mainly due to their versatility and customisable properties, which make it possible to tailor thermoplastics to specific requirements.

The history of thermoplastics dates back to the early 20th century, when these plastics were first produced on a large scale. Since then, thermoplastics have become an indispensable material in many industries. Over the decades, the technology for producing thermoplastics has continued to develop and today they are a symbol of innovation in materials science. The use of thermoplastics is so widespread that we encounter them constantly in our everyday lives, often without even realising it - be it in sportswear, packaging or technical devices.

Another important aspect of thermoplastics is their role in terms of sustainability. Many thermoplastics, especially standard plastics such as PE and PP, are fully recyclable. This makes them a favoured choice for companies focusing on sustainability and environmental friendliness. As thermoplastics can be easily moulded by heating, they can be easily reused without compromising their basic mechanical and chemical properties. This helps to close the material loop and minimise waste.

Exhibitors and innovations in the field of thermoplastics

At the K plastics trade fair, numerous exhibitors present their latest developments in the field of thermoplastics. This trade fair is one of the world's most important platforms for the plastics industry and offers a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies and innovations. From established standard plastics such as polyethylene (PE) to ultra-modern high-performance plastics - the variety of products on display is impressive.

The highlights of the trade fair include new developments in the production of thermoplastics. Many exhibitors will be presenting innovative thermoplastics that are even more resistant to extreme temperatures and chemical influences. The recyclability of these plastics is also at the centre of many presentations. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience at first hand how new technologies are paving the way for a more sustainable future.

The K plastics trade fair is also the ideal place to discover the latest trends in the thermoplastics industry. A particular focus here is on the development of new polymers and materials that are even more efficient and sustainable. Visitors can find out about innovative manufacturing processes that make it possible to produce thermoplastics with special properties such as increased thermal resistance or improved mechanical strength. These new materials offer a wide range of possible applications and are in demand in many industries.

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Production and application areas of thermoplastics

Thermoplastics are manufactured in a multi-stage process in which the polymers are moulded by heating and then transformed into a solid structure by cooling. The manufacturing process usually begins with polymerisation, in which monomers are chemically bonded together to form long polymer chains. It is these chains that give thermoplastics their unique mouldability and durability.

There are different production processes for thermoplastics, depending on the type of material used and the desired properties. One common process is extrusion, in which the heated polymer is pressed through a mould to obtain the desired shape. Polyethylene (PE), for example, is often produced using this process and is widely used in the packaging industry. Another example is the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by emulsion polymerisation. PVC is often used in the construction industry for pipes and window frames.

The areas of application for thermoplastics are extremely diverse. In the automotive industry, they are used for the production of lightweight components that help to reduce the weight of vehicles and thus lower fuel consumption. Thermoplastics are also widely used in aerospace engineering due to their high strength and low density. Thermoplastics are also indispensable in the packaging industry, where they are valued for their flexibility and resistance to moisture and chemicals.

Properties and advantages for the use of thermoplastics

Thermoplastics are characterised by a number of unique physical and chemical properties that make them particularly suitable for a wide range of applications. One of the most important properties is their thermoformability, which allows them to be moulded by heating and then returned to a solid state after cooling. This property makes thermoplastics ideal materials for the manufacture of products that need to be moulded and reshaped several times.

Another advantage of thermoplastics is their high resistance to chemical and mechanical influences. Many thermoplastics, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, are extremely resistant to corrosion and can be used in demanding environments. Their thermal resistance allows them to withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for applications where thermal stability is required.

Compared to other plastics, thermoplastics offer the advantage of being easily recyclable. This makes them an environmentally friendly choice for many companies that favour sustainable production methods. Due to their ability to be returned to their original state, thermoplastics can be used multiple times without compromising their structure or properties.

The versatility of thermoplastics in terms of specific material property requirements such as hardness, flexibility and transparency is another reason why they are valued in many industries. This adaptability makes thermoplastics a preferred material for the production of customised solutions in the construction, automotive and packaging design sectors.