There are numerous types of plastics, each with unique properties that make them suitable for different applications. Here’s an overview of some of the most common plastics, along with their characteristics and typical uses: 

1. Polyethylene (PE) Types: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Properties: HDPE: Strong, durable, resistant to impact, moisture, and chemicals. LDPE: Flexible, softer, more transparent, and lightweight. Uses: HDPE: Bottles, pipes, plastic bags, containers, and outdoor furniture. LDPE: Plastic bags, films, food packaging, and flexible containers. 

2. Polypropylene (PP) Properties: Lightweight, strong, resistant to heat, chemicals, and fatigue. Uses: Food containers, automotive parts, medical devices, textiles, and reusable plastic products. 

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Types: Rigid PVC (uPVC) and Flexible PVC Properties: Rigid PVC: Strong, durable, resistant to weather and chemicals. Flexible PVC: More flexible and soft, can be used for tubing or cables. Uses: Rigid PVC: Pipes, windows, building materials, and siding. Flexible PVC: Electrical cables, flooring, hoses, and inflatable products. 

4. Polystyrene (PS) Types: General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS) and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Properties: GPPS: Rigid, transparent, but brittle. EPS: Lightweight, insulating, and cushioning properties. Uses: GPPS: Disposable cups, plastic cutlery, CD cases, and packaging. EPS: Foam packaging, insulation, and disposable food containers. 

5. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE) Properties: Transparent, lightweight, strong, and recyclable. Uses: Beverage bottles, food containers, fibers for clothing (like polyester), and packaging films. 6. Acrylic (Polymethyl Methacrylate - PMMA) Properties: Clear, lightweight, shatter-resistant, and has excellent optical clarity. Uses: Windows, display cases, splash guards, lenses, and signage. 

7. Polycarbonate (PC) Properties: High impact resistance, transparent, strong, and heat-resistant. Uses: Safety goggles, helmets, machine guards, eyewear lenses, and automotive components. 

8. Nylon (Polyamide - PA) Properties: Tough, abrasion-resistant, durable, and has good mechanical strength. Uses: Gears, bearings, clothing, ropes, and automotive parts. 

9. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Properties: Strong, rigid, impact-resistant, and can be easily molded. Uses: Automotive parts, electronics housings (like TV and computer cases), toys (e.g., LEGO bricks), and pipes. 

10. Polylactic Acid (PLA) Properties: Biodegradable, compostable, derived from renewable sources like corn starch or sugarcane. Uses: Biodegradable packaging, disposable utensils, 3D printing filaments, and medical implants. 

11. Polyurethane (PU) Properties: Flexible, durable, elastic, resistant to wear, and can be either rigid or flexible. Uses: Foam insulation, cushions, mattresses, adhesives, coatings, and automotive parts. 

12. Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene - PTFE) Properties: Non-stick, heat-resistant, chemical-resistant, and low friction. Uses: Non-stick cookware, seals, gaskets, bearings, and insulation for electrical cables. 

13. Polyoxymethylene (POM or Acetal) Properties: Strong, stiff, low friction, and wear-resistant. Uses: Precision parts like gears, bearings, fasteners, and automotive components. 

14. Polyethylene Foam (PE Foam) Properties: Lightweight, soft, shock-absorbing, and insulating. Uses: Packaging materials, cushioning, insulation, and protective cases. 

15. Epoxy Resin Properties: High strength, excellent adhesion, chemical resistance, and can be cured to a hard, durable material. Uses: Adhesives, coatings, electrical components, and as a matrix for composite materials (e.g., fiberglass). 

16. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Properties: High-performance plastic with excellent chemical, heat, and wear resistance. Uses: Medical implants, aerospace components, and high-performance engineering applications.