A glance at the history and evolution of the plastics industry
In the plastics industry, Polyoxymethylene, known as POM, has been a key material in the development of numerous products. Throughout its history, POM has undergone significant advances and has proven to be a versatile and resistant plastic. In this blog, we will explore the fascinating history of POM, from its discovery to its current use in a variety of industrial applications. Join us on this journey through the evolution of POM and its impact on the plastics industry.
POM’s first steps: POM has its roots in the 1920s, when German chemist Hermann Staudinger conducted pioneering research on polymers. It was Staudinger who proposed the chemical structure of polyoxymethylene, laying the foundation for the subsequent development of POM. However, it was in the 1950s that POM was synthesized and commercialized for the first time, under the trade name “Delrin”, by the DuPont company.
Advances in POM formulation and properties: As the demand for stronger and more versatile plastics increased, efforts were made to improve the properties of POM. In this section, we will explore advances in POM formulation, such as the addition of copolymers and modifiers to improve its impact resistance and processability. We will also examine the key properties of POM, such as its high mechanical strength, dimensional stability and abrasion resistance.
Outstanding POM applications: POM has found applications in a wide range of industries due to its exceptional properties. In this section, we will highlight some of the most notable applications of POM. From automotive components and electronic devices to machinery parts and medical equipment, POM has proven its worth in numerous industries. We will explore case studies and concrete examples to illustrate how POM has improved the efficiency and functionality of various products.
Recent developments and future of POM: In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development and use of POM. In this section, we will discuss the most recent innovations in terms of POM formulation, processing and applications. In addition, we will examine current and future trends in the plastics industry, and how POM is adapting to changing challenges and demands. We will also explore efforts to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly plastics as a possible future direction for the POM.
Conclusion: Polyoxymethylene (POM) has come a long way since its discovery in the 1920s. Its history is marked by scientific breakthroughs, formulation improvements and a wide range of
industrial applications. Over the years, POM has proven to be a versatile and reliable plastic that has revolutionized the manufacture of various products.
Since its introduction in the 1950s, POM has found a wide range of applications in different industries. In the automotive industry, it is used in components such as gears, pulleys, bearings and steering systems. Its wear resistance, high stiffness and ability to withstand high loads make it an ideal material for these applications.
In the electronics industry, POM is used in device housings, connectors and wiring system components. Its low dielectric constant and heat resistance make it suitable for demanding electronic environments.
In the medical sector, POM is used in the manufacture of devices and equipment such as valves, syringes and analytical equipment components. Its corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and ability to withstand sterilization make it a safe and reliable choice for critical medical applications.
Other industries that benefit from the use of POM include the food industry, where it is used in food processing machinery components, and the packaging industry, where it is used in caps, closures and containers.
As for the future of the POM, it is expected to continue to evolve and adapt as new technologies develop and changing demands arise. Efforts are focused on improving POM properties, such as impact resistance and thermal stability, as well as looking for more sustainable and environmentally friendly options.
In conclusion, the history of POM is a history of innovation and development in the plastics industry. Its versatility, strength and ability to meet technical requirements in various industrial applications have made it an invaluable material. With continued advances and a focus on sustainability, POM will continue to play an important role in modern industry and in the manufacture of high-quality products.