ABS plastic

ABS is a hard, tough plastic that takes a glossy finish and holds its shape well. It is named for its three ingredients: acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. Each brings something different, and together they make a plastic that is rigid but doesn't shatter when dropped. LEGO bricks are made of it.

It is not one simple chain but a blend. First butadiene is linked into polybutadiene, a rubber, as tiny particles. Then styrene and acrylonitrile are linked into chains together around those particles, some of them grafting onto the rubber. The result is a hard, glassy plastic with soft rubber specks spread through it. When the plastic is hit, the rubber specks absorb the energy and stop cracks spreading. Acrylonitrile adds hardness and resistance to oils and chemicals; styrene adds stiffness and shine. Makers adjust the three amounts for each grade and add flame retardants for electronics.

The plastic is sold as pellets, which are melted and injection molded. In the TV it becomes the large back cover, the outer shell of the stand and the case of the remote control. It softens at about 100 °C, so it is kept away from the hottest parts.