The Hindu : Kerala / Kochi News : Book maps varied aspects of plastic

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Wednesday, May 25, 2011
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Kerala - Kochi

Book maps varied aspects of plastic

Staff Reporter

KOCHI: Ever thought of a life without plastic? From carry bags to combs and soap boxes, the material has become inevitable for humans.

Plastic – Kathayum Karyavum, a book penned by K. Girish Kumar, Professor of Applied Chemistry at the Cochin University of Science and Technology, makes an earnest effort to explain the varied facts related to plastic in an interesting manner.

The book targets the common reader and the language used is simple. It communicates the evolution of plastic in the initial chapter and goes on to unveil the different types of plastic materials available across the world.

“Plastic materials have been used widely for various purposes. Polymeric materials are used in solar batteries and sensors. Plastic materials are also used in the construction and agriculture sectors,” Dr. Kumar said.

The author points out that plastic walls will soon replace brick walls going by the rapid advancements in the use of the material. “Plastic and bricks are used together to build walls of different specifications. Vinyl polymer sheets and tiles are also available in the market,” he said.

In the agricultural sector, various types of plastic are used as greenhouse films. Dr. Kumar said that plastic pipes are used in drip irrigation method, helping farmers save water up to 60 per cent.

“Plastic use is widespread in the vehicle industry, where manufacturers use the material especially to cut the weight of motorbikes and cars,” he said.

But the book also reminds the readers that the unchecked use of the material is harmful to the environment.

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