Yes, petrochemicals are commonly used in the production of plastics, along with other materials like natural gas and coal. These materials are heated and transformed into monomers, which are then linked together to form polymers that make up plastic products. The use of petrochemicals in plastic production has raised concerns about the environmental impact of plastic waste.
Petrochemical products are everywhere and are integral to modern societies. They include plastics, fertilisers, packaging, clothing, digital devices, medical equipment, detergents, tires and many others.
Yes, petrochemicals are used as feedstocks in the production of most plastics. Ethylene and propylene, which are derived from crude oil or natural gas, are the most commonly used building blocks for plastic production. Other petrochemical derivatives such as styrene and vinyl chloride are also used in the production of specific types of plastics.