PLASTIC AND RESIN

LA 1221 - Plastic and Resin

  • Instructor: AR./ LAR. Ryan Anthony P. Cabanlit

What is Resin?

  • Resin is more than just a fancy name for plastic; it’s a solution.

Definition of Resin

  • Solid or highly viscous liquid convertible into a polymer.

  • Refers to a category of semi-solid natural and synthetic compounds that can harden into a durable plastic material.

Characteristics of Resins and Plastics

  • Organic in nature, largely composed of long hydrocarbon chains.

  • Both exhibit polymer characteristics due to repetitive units.

  • Resins are primarily natural, while plastics are typically synthetic or semi-synthetic.

Chemical Composition of Resins

  • Categorized as solid or semi-solid, amorphous compounds derived from plant exudations.

  • Clear yellowish-brown color; viscous and sticky due to volatile liquid terpenes.

  • Hardens into transparent solids upon treatment.

Types of Resins

  • Plastic Resin: Used as a base material for various products.

  • Polyester Resin: Produced by reaction between organic acids and polyhydric alcohols.

  • Polycarbonate Resin: A component in manufacturing certain plastics.

  • Casting Resin: Fluid resin used in resin casting for mold shaping.

  • Polymer Resin: Creates a durable, glossy coating; fade-proof and water-resistant.

  • Acrylic Resin: Formed from a chemical reaction of monomers producing polymer.

  • Dry Resin: Moisture removed, can be reactivated by heating.

Manufacturing of Plastic Resins

  • Hydrocarbons are heated in the cracking process to produce smaller molecules like ethylene and propylene.

  • Molecules combine to form polymers with distinct characteristics for diverse applications.

Types of Plastic Resins

  • Common types: Acetal, Acrylics, ABS, Alkyds, Cellulosics, Epoxy, Nylon, Polycarbonate, Polyethylene, PVC, etc.

Types of Plastics

Thermosets

  • Hard and durable; retain shape once set.

  • Examples: Alkyds, Urea formaldehyde (UF), Melamine formaldehyde (MF).

Thermoplastics

  • Softer and can be remolded upon heating.

  • Examples: PVC, ABS, High-density polyethylene (PE).

Thermoplastic vs Thermosetting Plastics

  • Thermoplastics: Soften upon heating, flexible for various applications.

  • Thermosetting: Rigid; do not revert to original shape once cooled.

Comparison between Resins and Plastics

  • Origin: Resins are natural; plastics are synthetic.

  • Stability: Plastics are stable; resins may contain impurities.

  • Physical State: Plastics are dense; resins are viscous.

  • Environmental Impact: Plastics are slow to degrade and can be toxic; resins are more eco-friendly.

Landscape Applications of Resins

  • Durability: Resin pathways enhance aesthetic and functional aspects of landscapes.

  • Seamless Finish: Offers smooth integration compatible with modern designs.

  • Versatility: Various colors, textures, and patterns available for outdoor designs.

  • Eco-friendliness: Resin-bound paths allow natural water drainage, reducing flooding risks.

Resin Pathways

  • Provide stable, low-maintenance options.

  • Durability and aesthetic appeal are key benefits.

  • Can be designed for both bold and subtle looks.

Unique Features of Resin in Landscaping

  • Resin-bound surfaces allow for a smooth, seamless finish as opposed to traditional gravel.

  • Environmental advantages include permeability and durability against the elements.

Advantages of Resin Planters

  • Lightweight and easily transportable compared to stone planters.

  • Non-porous and resistant to weathering, stains, and fractures.

  • Made of up to 90% post-consumer recycled materials; eco-friendly and reusable.

Color and Design Flexibility

  • Available in a variety of solid colors and blends to mimic natural materials.

  • Lighter weight aids in ease of transportation and installation in gardens.