Final answer:
CPVC pipes and fittings are orange-colored thermoplastic materials that can withstand higher temperatures and are made from chlorinated PVC, a highly versatile and widely used polymer.
Step-by-step explanation:
CPVC pipe and fittings, known for their ability to withstand higher temperatures compared to other plastics, are orange-colored thermoplastic materials. Derived from Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC, which was accidentally synthesized in 1872 by German chemist Eugen Baumann, CPVC stands for Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride. PVC itself is a very versatile polymer that's rated as the third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer in the world, with approximately 40 million tonnes produced annually. It's rigid in its basic form, making it suitable for construction materials such as pipes, house siding, and flooring.
However, with the addition of plasticizers, PVC becomes soft and flexible, appropriate for use in a variety of products like upholstery, electrical insulation, and shower curtains. While PVC is a prevalent polymer due to its numerous applications, there are environmental concerns leading to efforts to phase out this material.