Yes, LEGO bricks are made of plastic.
LEGO Brick Composition
Most LEGO bricks, since 1963, have been crafted from a high-quality plastic called ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene).
- ABS Plastic: This type of plastic is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to impact, making it an ideal material for toys.
- Other Plastics: While ABS is the primary material, other plastics may be used in specific LEGO elements or in older versions of the bricks.
- Colorants: Colorants are added to the plastic to achieve the wide range of colors LEGO bricks are famous for.
Why Use Plastic?
LEGO chose plastic, specifically ABS, for its:
- Durability: Plastic pieces can withstand repeated use and play.
- Precision: Injection molding of plastic allows for very precise shapes and tight tolerances.
- Safety: ABS is considered a non-toxic material for children's toys.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Plastic is a cost-effective material to produce in large quantities.
- Color Retention: Plastic holds color well, keeping the bricks vibrant over time.
Historical Context
| Year | Material |
|---|---|
| 1949 | Cellulose acetate |
| 1963 | ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) |
Key Takeaways
- LEGO bricks are made from ABS plastic, known for its durability.
- The use of ABS plastic started in 1963.
- The material choice contributes to the bricks' quality, safety, and colorfulness.
