Is plastic a conductor of electricity?

Some plastics can conduct electricity. Materials that insulate against electricity or do not conduct electricity are called dielectrics. While earlier plastics were dielectrics, scientists have developed plastics that can conduct electricity.

In 2008, scientists were able to develop a composite of plastic and metal that is homogeneous and finely meshed and capable of conducting electricity. The composite material is chemically stable and has the light weight of plastic and the conducting abilities of metals. This polymer was developed for use in a single-step process in printed circuit boards as well as in automobiles and aircraft, purposes that require ultra-light materials.