Polymers Compared to Plastic
- Smart Urban
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Plastics have come a long way since their inception in the 1940's. New "Smart" self-healing polymer compounds, when used for stabilising and reinforcing highly carbon intensive concrete, their long lifespan is actually environmentally beneficial.

Many people think all plastics are the same, but comparing modern self-healing polymers with brittle plastics of the past is like comparing the first commercially available handheld cellular phone, also known as "the brick, with a modern smartphone - they are simply worlds apart.


What Is the Advantage of Polymers Compared to Plastic?
There are many advantages of polymers when compared to plastic.
Natural polymers are not derived from crude oil.
Natural polymers do not release toxic fumes when burned.
Polymers are more sustainable than plastics
Polypropylene and Advaced Polymers are 100% recyclable
When used in this application polymers make foundations and bollards impact resistant and re-usable.
Polymers are found everywhere.
They are inside each living organism and can be found in rocks and minerals. Some examples of polymers are listed below:
Cellulose and lignin are natural polymers that form the basis for plants and trees.
Nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene are synthetic polymers that are classified as thermoplastics.
Elastomeric materials like rubber and latex.
Why Is Polymer Better Than Plastic?
Polymer is better than plastic because many examples are more flexible, sustainable, and biocompatible.
Because these materials are naturally occurring, they break down more quickly in nature than synthetic plastics. Additionally, some polymers are used in drug delivery systems and medical implants due to their biocompatibility.
Single use plastics (even polymers) are never a good choice. The fact that polymers are so resilient and long lasting makes them beneficial in applications like this, as they improve the lifespan of the carbon intensive concrete foundations, greatly reducing the impact of repeated repairs and carbon intensive waste on the environment.
Smart plastics- Advanced Polymer compounds
Intelligent materials, also known as smart materials, are capable of reacting to various external stimuli (such as impact froma vehicle) or environmental changes by rearranging their structure at a molecular level and adapting functionality accordingly. We have developed Smart Advanced Polymer compounds to create a material with improved properties, particularly in terms of impact resistance and flexibility.
We aim to reach maximum benefits for our customers
We are dedicated to advancing sustainable practices through innovative solutions, understanding the critical importance of environmental stewardship, community engagement, and economic stability. Our approach to sustainability influences every aspect of our operations, from purchasing and product development to daily management. By embracing responsible and innovative practices, we aim to make a positive and lasting impact.
There is a new compound, PLA (polylactic acid) derived from renewable sources like cornstarch and is biodegradable, so therefore considered more environmentally friendly. But the fact that it is highly biodegradable reduces its' lifespan and consequently reduces the lifespan of the far more carbon intensive surrounding concrete- making it suitable for packaging that is used once and disposed of, but unsuitable for our products, who's benefits are derived from their longivity.
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