What is Polypropylene (PP)?

Polypropylene (PP) is a type of polymer that is made from monomers called propylene. It is a synthetic polymer that is known for its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance.

Polypropylene is a semi-crystalline polymer that has a high melting temperature and a high modulus of elasticity. It has good wear resistance and low coefficient of friction, making it an excellent choice for use in applications where high strength and low friction are required. It is also resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents.

Polypropylene is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications, including the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries. It is also used in the production of seals, gaskets, and other sealing products, due to its excellent chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction.

Polypropylene - Key Properties

Key properties of polypropylene include:

High strength and toughness: Polypropylene has a high modulus of elasticity and excellent impact resistance, making it a strong and tough material.

High melting temperature: Polypropylene has a high melting temperature, making it suitable for use in high temperature applications.

Good chemical resistance: Polypropylene is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and organic solvents, making it a suitable choice for use in harsh environments.

Low coefficient of friction: Polypropylene has a low coefficient of friction, making it suitable for use in applications where low friction is required.

Good wear resistance: Polypropylene has good wear resistance, making it suitable for use in applications where high wear resistance is required.

Excellent moisture barrier properties: Polypropylene has excellent moisture barrier properties, making it suitable for use in packaging applications where moisture protection is required.

These properties make polypropylene a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications where its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction, make it a suitable choice. 

Common Applications

Common applications of Polypropylene include:

Manufacture of Packaging: Polypropylene is used in the production of packaging materials, such as bags, film, and containers, due to its excellent moisture barrier properties and good chemical resistance. 

Manufacture of Toys: Polypropylene is used in the production of toys, such as dolls, action figures, and other children's toys, due to its excellent impact resistance and good chemical resistance.

Furniture: Polypropylene is used in the production of furniture, such as chairs, tables, and other household furniture, due to its excellent impact resistance and good chemical resistance.

Automotive parts: Polypropylene is used in the production of automotive parts, such as gears, bearings, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and low coefficient of friction make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Medical devices: Polypropylene is used in the production of medical devices, such as syringes, tubing, and other components that are exposed to harsh environments. Its excellent impact resistance, chemical resistance, and low coefficient of friction make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Electronics: Polypropylene is used in the production of electronic components, such as circuit boards, connectors, and switches. Its good chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction make it a suitable choice for these applications.

Polypropylene is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of products where its excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its good chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction, make it a suitable choice.

Summarised Properties of Polypropylene:

  • Excellent chemical resistance - Polypropylene has a high chemical compatibility.

    Low Cost - Perfect for general use fastening.

    UL94 HB Rated

  • - Low weight

    - Specific gravity (0.9).

    - Flame resistance

    - Abrasion resistance

  • - Non-Magnetic

    - Low thermal conductivity

    - Non-Corrosive

    - Shock resistance

Polypropylene Fasteners

High Performance Polymer offer a range of Polypropylene Fasteners. Find out more by selecting a product below:

Polypropylene Hexagon Bolts - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components
Polypropylene Hexagon Nuts - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components
Polypropylene Flat Washers - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components
Polypropylene Hit Rivet - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components
PE Balls High Performance Polymer-Plastic Balls - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components
Polypropylene Bushings - High Performance Polymer-Plastic Fastener Components