Industry : Usage of ethene, polyethene

Chemists set out to find sustainable alternatives to paper bags in response to environmental worries about deforestation and its effect on global warming. This journey resulted in the invention of plastic bags, with polyethylene emerging as a noteworthy and accidental breakthrough, offering versatility and environmental benefits.

Initially, polyethylene was discovered accidentally by a chemist. However, it was proven to be a fortunate discovery. It is widely used attributed to its water resistant properties and lower production costs compared to paper bags. The accidental nature of its discovery has significantly impacted the world.

Plastic is made of polymer of ethylene also known as polyethene. Polyethylene is produced industrially through the synthesis of ethylene as one of the main applications. Polyethylene has found applications not only in plastic bags but also in plastic and molded ware such as, plastic bottle, plastic container, plastic films, plastic toys, water tanks and more, anything related to plastic. However, not all plastic is polyethylene, but polyethylene is one of plastic. It is from a simple monomer that consists of 2 carbon and a double bond, named ethene. It undergoes the polymerization process, and many ethylene molecules are linked together to form a polymer, polyethene.

The characteristic of polyethylene is lightweight, durable, versatile synthetic resin that lasts for a long time. Polyethylene is a thermoplastic, which means it can be softened through heat. This means it can be processed using methods such as blow molding, thermoforming, injection molding, and extrusion. In addition, thermoplastics is one of characteristics of polyethylene, which is readily recyclable as it solidifies after cooling and do not alter chemically even after being heated and cooled several times. This means that polyethylene can be recyclable.

Even though it uses petroleum resources to produce polyethylene, it has proven to be a more environmentally friendly option than cotton or paper bags. There are less waste, hazardous byproducts, and carbon emissions produced during the manufacture of plastic bags. Furthermore, plastic bags durability and reusability add to their sustainability.