Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Polymer and Plastic?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Polymer and Plastic?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between polymers and plastics lies in their composition and origin. Polymers are large molecules composed of repeating chains of individual atoms or molecules, known as monomers. They can be naturally occurring (such as cellulose, latex, and rubber) or synthetic (like nylon, polyethylene, and polypropylene). On the other hand, plastics are a specific type of polymer made from oil, with a wide range of durability. In summary:

  • Polymers: Large molecules composed of repeating chains of monomers, can be natural or synthetic.
  • Plastics: A specific type of polymer made from oil, with a wide range of durability, and a subset of polymers.

While all plastics are considered polymers, not all polymers are considered plastics. The terms "polymer" and "plastic" are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Differences between polymers and plastics also exist concerning recyclability, flexibility, and strength.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Polymer and Plastic?
  • Comparative Table: Polymer vs Plastic

    • Comparative Table: Polymer vs Plastic

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between polymers and plastics:

    Property Polymers Plastics
    Definition Polymers are large molecules composed of repeating chains of individual atoms or molecules. Plastics are hydrocarbon-based polymeric materials derived from crude oil and natural gas, and are a subset of polymers.
    Occurrence Polymers can be naturally occurring (e.g., cellulose, latex, and rubber) or synthetic (e.g., nylon, polyethylene, and polypropylene). Plastics are always synthetic and derived from petroleum products.
    Structure Polymers can have linear, branched, or cross-linked chains. Plastics typically have a hierarchical structure with microscopic clusters of singly linked polymer chains.
    Properties The properties of polymers can be changed by modifying the chemical structure, cross-linking polymer chains, changing the length of the polymer chains, or introducing branched chains. Plastics have a wide range of properties that can be tailored for various applications, including strength, durability, and impact resistance.
    Applications Polymers have a diverse range of applications, including use in 3D printing (e.g., polylactic acid or PLA), and various industries such as automotive and packaging. Plastics are used in a wide variety of applications, including packaging, automotive, and consumer products, due to their low production cost, high strength-to-weight ratio, and versatility.

    It is worth noting that all plastics are polymers, but not all polymers are plastics.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.