Celluloid, one of the first synthetic plastics, was invented in the 1860s and gained widespread use in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is primarily composed of cellulose nitrate, derived from plant fibers, and camphor, an organic compound that acts as a plasticizer. Cellulose nitrate, the main component, is formed by replacing hydroxyl groups in cellulose with nitro groups, giving it flammable properties. The addition of camphor makes celluloid flexible and durable, forming a lightweight and moldable material that can be produced in various colors and transparencies. The unique properties of celluloid made it a versatile material for many applications. It was a cornerstone of early photography and cinema, providing the transparent, durable film used in cameras and projectors. Beyond film, it was used in consumer goods like combs, jewelry, toys, and ping pong balls, prized for its lightweight and rigidity. It also found use in medical and dental items such as prosthetics and ...