What Is a Plastic Crystal?
A plastic crystal is a unique type of crystal characterized by the orderly arrangement of polymer chains. This structure grants it distinct properties not found in typical plastics.
Notable for having both a melting point and a glass transition temperature, plastic crystals embody a mix of crystalline and amorphous characteristics. Common examples include materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate, which find extensive use in manufacturing fibers, films, containers, automotive components, and electrical parts.
The essence of a plastic crystal’s functionality lies in its structured polymer chains. This configuration not only dictates its thermal properties but also its transition into a solid form upon cooling, limiting the movement of the polymer chains. The blend of crystalline and amorphous aspects contributes to their significant mechanical strength, thermal resistance, and potential for transparency.