The word Plastics comes from the Greek word "plastikos", which means easily moulded.

Plastics are made by linking together the atoms of elements and forming long chains of molecules called polymers.

The polymers are formed into products by different processing methods. The most common methods involve heating the plastic until soft, shaping in a mould, and cooling until the plastic is solid and set in its new shape.

Plastics come in all shapes and sizes and are used to make may everyday items you probably take for granted; like bank notes and credit cards, phones, devices and computer parts, insulation and pipes for buildings, food packaging, toys, medical and surgical equipment.

Source: Acil Allen based on American Chemistry Council 2017, Elements of the Business of Chemistry.

Source: Chemistry Australia