PP (Polypropylene)
Polypropylene is the most produced plastic globally by volume. Semi-crystalline thermoplastic with excellent chemical resistance, low density (0.90–0.91 g/cm³ — lightest engineering plastic, floats in water), good fatigue resistance (living hinges) and low cost. Available as homopolymer (higher stiffness) and copolymer (better impact). Trade names: Moplen (LyondellBasell), Sabic PP (SABIC), Borealis PP. Used for packaging, automotive bumpers/interiors, medical devices, piping, hinges, containers, textiles (nonwoven) and household goods.
Chemical composition comparison (wt%)
Side-by-side: PP (Polypropylene) (COMPOSITION) (ISO 1873) vs ASTM
| Element | PP (Polypropylene) (COMPOSITION) | ASTM | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Polymer (Polypropylene) | 99–99.9% | — | — |
Mechanical properties
Homopolymer
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 31–37 | MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 1300–1800 | MPa |
| Elongation at Break | 100–600 | % |
Copolymer
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Charpy Impact (notched, 23°C) | 5–15 | kJ/m² |
| Charpy Impact (notched, -20°C) | 2–5 | kJ/m² |
General
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 0.9–0.91 | g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 160–170 | °C |
| HDT/A (1.8 MPa) | 50–65 | °C |
| Water Absorption (24h) | 0.01–0.03 | % |
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