Nylon vs. Plastic: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 10, 2024
Nylon is a type of synthetic polymer, specifically a polyamide, known for strength and elasticity, while plastic is a broader category of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials used in a wide range of applications.
Key Differences
Nylon is a synthetic polymer, made of polyamides, characterized by its high strength and elasticity. It was first produced in the 1930s as a silk replacement. Plastic, on the other hand, is a broader term referring to a range of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that can be molded into different shapes. Plastics can include various polymers, but not all are as strong or elastic as nylon.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
In terms of production, Nylon is created through a process called polycondensation, involving the reaction of dicarboxylic acid and diamine. This process gives nylon fibers their unique characteristics. Plastic production varies widely depending on the type; for instance, polyethylene is made from ethylene monomers, resulting in a different set of properties like flexibility or rigidity.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Nylon is often used in textiles, automotive parts, and gears due to its durability and resistance to heat and chemicals. It's particularly valued in the manufacture of hosiery and ropes. Plastic is used in a vast array of products, from packaging materials to electronic devices, offering versatility due to its ability to be formulated with various properties.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Environmental impact is a concern for both Nylon and Plastic. Nylon manufacturing is energy-intensive and releases nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. Most plastics, being petroleum-based, also have significant environmental footprints, contributing to pollution and waste management issues.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Recycling processes also differ. Nylon can be recycled, but the process is complex and not as widespread. Plastic recycling varies by type; some, like PET, are routinely recycled, while others pose more challenges due to their chemical structure or contamination.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Primary Properties
High strength, elasticity
Wide range, from rigid to flexible
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Jan 10, 2024
Typical Uses
Textiles, gears, automotive parts
Packaging, containers, devices
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Jan 10, 2024
Environmental Impact
High energy use, greenhouse gas
Pollution, waste management issues
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Jan 10, 2024
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Nylon and Plastic Definitions
Nylon
Nylon is a durable synthetic polymer used in textiles.
The hiker's backpack was made of strong nylon.
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Dec 19, 2023
Plastic
Plastic is a malleable synthetic or semi-synthetic material.
The plastic container kept the food fresh.
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Dec 19, 2023
Nylon
Nylon is known for its elasticity and heat resistance.
The kitchen utensils were made of heat-resistant nylon.
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Dec 19, 2023
Plastic
Plastic often refers to various polymers used in everyday items.
The plastic bags were used for grocery shopping.
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Dec 19, 2023
Nylon
Nylon is a polyamide, a type of synthetic plastic.
The ropes were made of high-quality nylon for better durability.
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Dec 19, 2023
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Plastic
Plastic is known for its durability and low cost.
Disposable plastic cups were used for the party.
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Dec 19, 2023
Nylon
Nylon is used in the production of synthetic fabrics.
Her dress was made from brightly colored nylon.
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Dec 19, 2023
Nylon
Nylon often replaces silk in various applications.
The artist used nylon threads to create the tapestry.
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Dec 19, 2023
Plastic
Relating to or dealing with shaping or modeling
The plastic art of sculpture.
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Nylon
Any of a family of high-strength, resilient synthetic polymers, the molecules of which contain the recurring amide group CONH.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Having the qualities of sculpture; well-formed
"the astonishing plastic beauty of the chorus girls" (Frank Harris).
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Giving form or shape to a substance
The plastic forces that create and wear down a mountain range.
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Plastic
Easily influenced; impressionable
"The plastic mind of the bank clerk had been ... distorted by what he had read" (Rudyard Kipling).
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Dec 13, 2023
Nylon
Originally, the DuPont company trade name for polyamide, a copolymer whose molecules consist of alternating diamine and dicarboxylic acid monomers bonded together; now generically used for this type of polymer.
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Dec 13, 2023
Nylon
(in the plural) A stocking originally fabricated from nylon; also used generically for any long, sheer stocking worn on a woman's legs.
I tore a hole in my nylons while walking home through the woods.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
(Physics) Capable of undergoing continuous deformation without rupture or relaxation.
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Nylon
(perjoratively, by comparison to silk) A Queen's Counsel, King's Counsel or Senior Counsel who was appointed as a courtesy, rather than on merit.
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Dec 13, 2023
Nylon
Any of several thermoplastic polyamide plastics, comprising a family of high-strength resilient synthetic materials, used mostly in fibers.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Able to change and adapt, especially by acquiring alternative pathways for sensory perception or motor skills. Used of the central nervous system.
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Plastic
Marked by artificiality or superficiality
A plastic world of fad, hype, and sensation.
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Dec 13, 2023
Nylon
Stockings made of a thin form of nylon{2}, especially full-length stockings either sheer of of varying shades.
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Dec 13, 2023
Nylon
A thermoplastic polyamide; a family of high-strength resilient synthetic materials
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Any of various organic compounds produced by polymerization, capable of being molded, extruded, cast into various shapes and films, or drawn into filaments used as textile fibers.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
(Informal) A credit card or credit cards
Would accept cash or plastic in payment.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
A synthetic, solid, hydrocarbon-based polymer, whether thermoplastic or thermosetting.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Credit or debit cards used in place of cash to buy goods and services.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Insincerity; fakeness, or a person who is fake or arrogant, or believes that they are better than the rest of the population.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
(biology) Capable of adapting to varying conditions; characterized by environmental adaptability.
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Plastic
Of or pertaining to the inelastic, non-brittle, deformation of a material.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Having the power to give form or fashion to a mass of matter; as, the plastic hand of the Creator.
See plastic Nature working to his end.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Capable of being molded, formed, or modeled, as clay or plaster; - used also figuratively; as, the plastic mind of a child.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Pertaining or appropriate to, or characteristic of, molding or modeling; produced by, or appearing as if produced by, molding or modeling; - said of sculpture and the kindred arts, in distinction from painting and the graphic arts.
Medallions . . . fraught with the plastic beauty and grace of the palmy days of Italian art.
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
A substance composed predominantly of a synthetic organic high polymer capable of being cast or molded; many varieties of plastic are used to produce articles of commerce (after 1900). [MW10 gives origin of word as 1905]
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Generic name for certain synthetic or semisynthetic materials that can be molded or extruded into objects or films or filaments or used for making e.g. coatings and adhesives
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Used of the imagination;
Material...transformed by the plastic power of the imagination
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Capable of being molded or modeled (especially of earth or clay or other soft material);
Plastic substances such as wax or clay
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Plastic
Capable of being influenced or formed;
The plastic minds of children
A pliant nature
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Dec 13, 2023
Plastic
Plastic is widely used in packaging and manufacturing.
The toy was made from colorful, hard plastic.
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Dec 19, 2023
Plastic
Plastic can vary in density, strength, and flexibility.
She chose a flexible plastic cover for her phone.
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Dec 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What are common uses of Nylon?
Used in textiles, automotive parts, and as a silk substitute.
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Jan 10, 2024
Are all plastics the same?
No, they vary widely in composition and properties.
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Jan 10, 2024
What is Nylon?
Nylon is a synthetic polymer, known for its strength and elasticity.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
What's the difference between Nylon and Polyester?
Both are synthetic but differ in chemical structure and properties.
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Jan 10, 2024
What is Plastic?
A broad category of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials moldable into various shapes.
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Jan 10, 2024
Are Plastics biodegradable?
Most are not, but some biodegradable plastics are being developed.
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Jan 10, 2024
Why is Plastic widely used?
Due to its versatility, durability, and low cost.
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Jan 10, 2024
Can Plastic be recycled?
Yes, but it depends on the type of plastic and local facilities.
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Jan 10, 2024
Do Plastics harm the environment?
Yes, due to pollution and waste management challenges.
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Jan 10, 2024
What's the main component of Nylon?
Polyamides formed from dicarboxylic acid and diamine.
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Jan 10, 2024
How is Nylon made?
Through a polycondensation process of specific chemicals.
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Jan 10, 2024
What are the environmental impacts of Nylon production?
High energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is Nylon environmentally friendly?
Its production is energy-intensive and releases greenhouse gases.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is Nylon a type of Plastic?
Yes, it's a specific type of synthetic plastic.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is Nylon suitable for all clothing?
It's versatile but not ideal for every type of clothing due to breathability issues.
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Jan 10, 2024
What advancements are being made in Plastic technology?
Developments in bioplastics and more efficient recycling methods.
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Jan 10, 2024
Why is recycling Plastic important?
To reduce environmental impact and conserve resources.
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Jan 10, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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