Plastic resins are polymers or macromolecules made from petroleum or natural gas-based raw materials, such as ethylene and propylene. These are then subjected to a series of chemical processes in which a wide variety of additives, such as fillers, colorants, stabilizers, and other chemicals, are incorporated. The resulting resin can be formed into a variety of shapes, such as sheets, films, or pellets, and used to make everything from packaging to armor plating.

The production of plastic resin starts with selection of raw material. It is usually derived from natural gas or petroleum, though other materials such as corn-based polylactide may also be used. The raw material is then heated and reacted in a process known as polymerization, during which it is broken down into individual molecules and recombined into a long chain molecule. The length and complexity of this chain will determine physical and chemical characteristics of resulting product.

Once polymerization process is complete, thermoplastic resin is ready to be formed into a variety of products. The first step in this process is known as extrusion. This process involves a heated cylinder that is filled with molten resin and then passed through a die. This produces a continuous stream of material in desired shape, such as a sheet or film.

The next step is injection molding, which involves injection of molten plastic into a custom-made mold. This produces a three-dimensional shape with intricate details. This process can be used to make plastic components for a wide variety of products, such as bottles, toys, and automobile parts.

Finally, resin may be subjected to further processes, such as thermoforming and vacuum forming. Thermoforming involves application of heat and vacuum to a sheet of plastic, which allows it to be bent and molded into desired shape. Vacuum forming involves use of a vacuum to draw a sheet of plastic over a mold, creating a three-dimensional shape.

Once plastic resin has gone through production process, it is ready to be used in a variety of products. It is durable, lightweight, and offers excellent insulation properties, making it an ideal material for a wide range of applications. From packaging and toys to furniture and automobile parts, plastic resin is one of most versatile materials used in manufacturing today.