Fact of the Day: 02/11/2021
We use plastic for everything, including water bottles, toys, pencil boxes, etc. Have you ever wondered who invented plastic? The first form of plastic was created by Alexander Parkes in 1862. He created a plastic that could be heated and molded, and that would retain its shape when it cooled. This is known as Parkesine. Another notable plastic form was created by John Wesley Watt in 1868. It was used as a substitute for ivory and to create the “first flexible photographic film.” Only in 1907, however, was a commercially-useful plastic created, by Leo Hendrik Bakeland. Bakelite, his invention, helped plastic dominate the world. In short, plastic didn’t evolve overnight. The next time you use a plastic item, think about how much time and effort was used in creating this invention.
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Fact Author: Durga I.
Fact Editor: Ace
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