How did plastic originate?
A dive into the history of a revolutionary material
Plastic, omnipresent in our daily lives, has a relatively short history but full of innovations and revolutions.
From its origins in the 19th century to the boom of the 20th century, to today’s environmental challenges, the journey of plastic is a fascinating tale of chemistry, engineering and impact on society.
The first discoveries
The first signs of the birth of plastic came in the 19th century, with the discovery of materials such as parkesine (1862) and celluloid (1870).
These first examples, although innovative, had several limitations, such as flammability or poor water resistance.
The turning point of the 20th century
The real turning point came in the 20th century with the discovery of new polymers, such as polyethylene (1933) and nylon (1935). These materials, characterized by lightness, resistance and versatility, opened the way to an infinite number of applications in different industrial sectors.
From war to economic boom
World War II accelerated the development and use of plastic, which was used in various military products.
In the post-war period, plastic became the protagonist of the economic boom, replacing traditional materials such as glass, wood and metal in a variety of objects, from household appliances to cars.
Towards a sustainable future
Today, plastic is an essential material from our lives, but its environmental impact has become one of the most urgent challenges.
The research focuses on the development of biodegradable and recyclable plastics, for a more sustainable future.
Plastic recycling
Hydroswiss, a leading company in the construction of industrial recycling plants, is committed to finding innovative solutions for the management and recycling of different types of plastic.
Thanks to advanced technologies and the experience of a highly qualified team, Hydroswiss contributes to reducing the environmental impact of plastic and promoting a more circular future.
Find out more about our recycling facilities and how we can help you achieve your sustainability goals.
