Plastic refers to a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that are made from polymers, which are long chains of molecules that can be molded or shaped into a variety of forms. Plastics are widely used in the aerospace industry for a variety of purposes, including structural components, interior parts, and other applications.
Some of the key properties of plastics that make them useful in the aerospace industry include their lightweight, strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. These properties make plastics well-suited for use in aircraft and other aerospace vehicles, where weight is a critical consideration and where parts must be able to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
There are many different types of plastics that are used in the aerospace industry, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and acrylics, among others. These plastics can be molded, extruded, or otherwise formed into a wide range of shapes and sizes, and can be modified with additives or other materials to improve their specific properties.
In addition to their use in structural and interior parts, plastics are also used in a variety of other aerospace applications, such as insulation, seals, and electrical components.