Material information without obligation for Polypropylen

Physical and Mechanical Properties

With 0,90-0,91 g/ccm polypropylene is a very light material. PP has good stress crack resistance, a good toughness and an excellent permanent fatique strength (given suitable fibre cross sections). The service life decreases as the temperature increases. PP is water resistant. As regards hardness PP is at the upper limits of HD-PE and bridges the gap to PA6. With modern catalytic agents variations are to be expected which will cover the whole range of the harder thermoplastic elastomers, as far as a long way into the PA range.

Thermic Properties

The temperature range for permanent use of PP without a mechanical load is from approx. -40° to 110° C. For a short time PP can also withstand temperatures of about 140° C. It starts to burn at about 330° C. It burns with a weak flame and produces burning drops.

Optical and Chemical Properties

In its natural colour PP can be seen through but is not completely transparent. As the wall thickness reduces, PP moulded parts become increasingly transparent. Random co-polymers are almost completely transparent. PP is non-polar and can therefore only be attacked by very few chemicals. It is resistant to watery, salt solutions, acids and alkalis. It is resistant to alcohol solutions up to 60° C and solutions of washing lyes. It swells up when exposed to halogenised hydrocarbons and at increased temperatures by grease, oil and wax. Given suitable colouration on a polyeurethane and acrylic base PP can be varnished.

Physiological Behaviour and Joint

PP is taste and smell neutral and can be exposed to the skin unless additives are used which are harmful to health (e.g. UV and copper stabilisers). Thanks to its good chemical consistency only impact glues can be used. The surface of the parts must be scuffed or base-coated first. PP can be jointed via heat element, friction, vibration or hot gas welding.

Weathering and Ageing

In the visible area PP is adequately resistant to radiation. UV rays produce oxidation of the surface of PP parts and lead therefore to brittleness and eventually to disintegration. A suitable colouration, e.g. soot, acts as a stabiliser, but reduces the resistance to ageing through heat.

Special Uses, Products

Glass fibre and other fillers designed to strengthen the material, various stabilisers, conductive materials for improving electrical conductivity. Storage and transport containers, covers, fan wheels, furniture fittings, housings for electrical appliances.