When Was Plastic Invented and Used? A Historical Overview

Introduction

Plastic is a versatile material that has been a part of our lives for more than a century. But when was plastic invented and used? To answer this question, we must first understand what plastic is. Plastic is a synthetic or semi-synthetic material made up of polymers, which are long chains of molecules.

In this article, we will explore the history of plastic inventions and uses, tracking the development of plastic over time and looking at how the invention of plastic changed manufacturing, as well as its environmental impacts and benefits.

Historical Overview of Plastic Inventions and Uses

The history of plastic starts in the 19th century with early experiments in the creation of artificial materials that could be molded and shaped into different forms. In 1839, American inventor John Wesley Hyatt developed a method for creating celluloid, which was the first artificial plastic. Celluloid was used for making billiard balls, combs, and other items.

In 1907, Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland created Bakelite, an inexpensive and lightweight material that could be molded into any shape. Bakelite was used for a variety of products, including telephones, radios, and electrical insulators. In 1912, Swiss chemist Jacques E. Brandenberger invented cellophane, a transparent material used for packaging food and other items. In 1935, American chemist Wallace Carothers developed nylon, a strong and durable synthetic material used for making clothing, carpets, and many other items.

Polyethylene was introduced in 1939 by British chemists Eric Fawcett and Reginald Gibson. Polyethylene is a lightweight and flexible plastic that is widely used today for packaging food, cosmetics, and other items.

Tracking the Development of Plastic Over Time

Since its invention, plastic has undergone numerous innovations in production methods and materials. In the 1950s and 60s, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was introduced as an alternative to Bakelite and other plastics. PVC is a strong and durable material that is used for making pipes, window frames, and other items.

Manufacturing processes have also changed over time. Injection molding, for example, is a process in which molten plastic is injected into a mold to form a specific shape. This process has allowed manufacturers to produce plastic products quickly and cheaply.

In addition, plastic has found new uses in recent years. For instance, plastic is now being used in medical devices, such as implants and prosthetics, as well as in electronics and construction materials.

How the Invention of Plastic Changed Manufacturing

The invention of plastic revolutionized manufacturing in several ways. First, it allowed manufacturers to produce products quickly and efficiently. According to the American Chemistry Council, plastic products can be produced “in a fraction of the time required to make similar products from traditional materials like steel, aluminum, and wood.”

Second, plastic is generally less expensive to produce than traditional materials. As the Council notes, “the cost savings realized by using plastics instead of other materials can be substantial.” Finally, plastic’s versatility has enabled manufacturers to create products for a wider range of applications.

Exploring the Environmental Impact of Plastic Use

While plastic has many advantages, it also has a number of environmental drawbacks. Plastic waste is one of the most serious problems facing the planet today. According to a study published in Science Magazine, approximately 8 million tons of plastic end up in the oceans each year, with much of it coming from discarded plastic bags, bottles, and other products.

Another major problem is microplastic particles, which are tiny fragments of plastic that are ingested by marine life and can eventually find their way into the human food chain. Scientists estimate that there are now millions of tons of these particles floating in the world’s oceans.

Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reduce plastic waste. Reusable bags, bottles, and other items can help to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans. Recycling programs can also help to minimize plastic waste.

Investigating the Benefits of Plastic in Our Lives

Despite the environmental concerns associated with plastic use, it is important to remember that plastic has many benefits. Plastic is often safer and more convenient than traditional materials, as it is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, fire, and other hazards. It is also very versatile, as it can be used to create a wide range of products.

In addition, plastic is often more cost effective than traditional materials. According to the American Chemistry Council, “the use of plastics can result in significant cost savings throughout the product life cycle.”

Conclusion

Plastic has been a part of our lives for more than a century, and its invention has revolutionized manufacturing and our daily lives. While plastic has its drawbacks, such as pollution and microplastics in the ocean, it also has many benefits, such as safety, convenience, and cost effectiveness. It is important to understand both the environmental impacts and benefits of plastic use so that we can make informed decisions about how to best use this versatile material.