Thermoplastics:
There are no links inbetween the polymer chains of thermoplastics, this means they can be recycled as they can be heated and re-moulded over and over

Thermosetting plastics: They can not be re-heated and re-moulded because the polymer chains have links in between each one making it a rigid structure


Properties of plastics 
Good thermal and electrical insulators 
Good straight against weight ratio 
Good resistance against chemical and atmospheric erosion (doesn't decompose)
Low melting point
Available in wide range of colours and transparency
Two main categories thermoplastic and thermosetting plastics


Ways to improve properties of plastics
Fillers: fillers are used to bulk up plastics and means that they can get a more plastic without using up loads of crude oil
Flame retardants: This is used to help reduce the risk of combustion
Anti static agents: Reduces the effects of static charges (Can be used in carpets)
Plasticisers: makes material less brittle and improves the flow properties
Stablisers: reduce the effect the ultra violet light has upon the object so that the colour of the plastic isn't lost (Outdoor benches or Window frames)


Types of thermoplastics
ABS -  Acrylonitrile butadiene styrine
CA - Cellulose acetate
NYLON - Polyamide
PMMA - Acrylic
PP - Polypropylene
HIPS - High impact polystyrene
PS - Polystyrene
LDPE - Low density polyethylene 
HDPE - High density polyethylene
uPVC - Polyvynal chloride 
PVC - Unplasticated flexible polyvynal chloride 
PET - Polyetheylene terepheluate
PC - Polycarbonate 

Types of thermosetting plastics

Epoxy resins: surface coating, adhesives
Malamine formaldehyde: table ware, laminate 
Polyester resins: castings
Urea formaldehyde: electrical fittings, adhesives

Closed loop recycling:

Closed loop recycling is where a waste or byproduct of a process or product is used in making another product. E.g., recycling waste newspaper to make paper-board or other types of paper.