What is Polypropylene?

Polypropylene (PP) is a chemical compound that is classified as plastic. It belongs to the polyolefin group and is obtained in the process of propene polymerization. Polypropylene products are used in many industries, due to their exceptional durability and hardness.

What are the Physical and Chemical Properties of Polypropylene?

Physical Properties: Propylene is a hard, opaque and solid material. It has a low specific gravity, it can swim in water.

Chemical Properties: Chemical resistance is good. It is suitable for all thermoplastic production processes. The melting temperature of polypropylene is between 130 °C  to 171 °C. The coefficient of friction is low, which provides very good electrical insulation.

In general, the technical characteristics of polypropylene can be listed as follows;

• Low specific gravity,

• High chemical resistance,

• High electrical strength,

• High tensile strength,

• Low wear resistance,

• Resistance to low atmospheric effects,

* Ability to combine with welding,

• Suitable for contact with food

How to Get Polypropylene?

The melt process of polypropylene can be achieved by extrusion and molding. Common extrusion methods include producing melt-blown and thread-bonded fibers to produce long rolls and converting them to be used in the production of useful products such as face masks, filters, diapers and wet wipes.

The most common forming technique is injection molding, which is used for auto parts such as mug cups, cutlery, vials, lids, containers, household items and batteries. Air pressure molding and injection stretch air pressure molding techniques are also used, which include extrusion and molding processes.

Specific molecular properties and the possibility of adjusting the level with additives used during its production allow polypropylene to be used in a large number of applications. For example, adding antistatic additives can help polypropylene surfaces withstand dust and dirt. In polypropylene, many painting techniques can be used such as machining. The adhesion ability of printer ink and paints can be improved by applying a surface coating to polypropylene parts.