The discovery and development of plastics is a fascinating story that spans the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The history of plastic can be traced back to the mid-1800s, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that the modern plastics industry emerged. Here’s a brief overview:
Early Discoveries (1800s)
The first synthetic plastic, known as Parkesine, was created by Alexander Parkes in 1856. Parkesine was derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls, and it was initially used as a substitute for ivory and horn.
In 1869, John Wesley Hyatt developed a similar material called celluloid, an early form of plastic that became popular for photographic film and as a substitute for materials like ivory and tortoiseshell.
Bakelite (1907)
The true birth of the modern plastics era can be attributed to Leo Baekeland, a Belgian chemist, who invented Bakelite in 1907. Bakelite was the first synthetic resin that retained its shape and did not conduct electricity, making it a versatile material for various applications.
Bakelite found widespread use in electrical insulators, radio and telephone casings, jewellery, and various household items. It marked the beginning of the mass production of plastics.
Polyethylene (1930s)
In 1933, scientists Reginald Gibson and Eric Fawcett accidentally discovered polyethylene while conducting experiments with high-pressure reactions. This discovery led to the development of a versatile and widely used plastic.
Polyethylene became the basis for many plastic products, including packaging materials and various consumer goods.
Nylon (1935)
Wallace Carothers, working for DuPont, invented nylon in 1935. Nylon was the first synthetic fiber and had a significant impact on the textile industry. It was used in products like stockings and later found applications in various industries.
World War II and Plastics Boom
World War II played a crucial role in the advancement of plastics. Plastics were used in military applications for various reasons, such as light weighting and corrosion resistance.
After the war, the plastics industry experienced a boom as new materials and manufacturing processes were developed. Plastics became an integral part of everyday life, revolutionising industries like packaging, automotive, and consumer goods.
Further Developments
Over the years, the plastics industry continued to evolve with the introduction of new polymers and improved manufacturing processes. High-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and other polymers became widely used.
While plastics have brought about many technological advancements and conveniences, the environmental impact of plastic waste has become a significant global concern in more recent times. Efforts are ongoing to develop sustainable alternatives and improve recycling technologies to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic use.
