Plastic Properties of Polypropylene (PP)
 

Polypropylene Round Dipping Basket

Polypropylene (PP), a polymer prepared catalytically from propylene which differs from HDPE by having an isostatic replacement of a hydrogen atom by a methyl group on alternate carbon atoms in the main chain.

Although largely unreactive chemically the presence of the methyl groups makes Polypropylene slightly more susceptible to attack by strong oxidizing agents than HDPE. A major advantage is Polypropylene's higher temperature resistance, this makes PP particularly suitable for items such as trays, funnels, pails, bottles, carboys and instrument jars that have to be sterilized frequently for use in a clinical environment.

Polypropylene is a translucent material with excellent mechanical properties and it has gradually replaced the polyethylenes for many purposes.

 

Polypropylene Resistance:		Polypropylene Quick Facts:
Excellent resistance (no attack) to most Acid solutions, Alcohols, Bases and Mineral Oils.		• Max Temp: 250°F 121°C • Min Temp: -40°F -40°C • Autoclavable: Yes • Melting Point: 300°F 149°C • Tensile Strength: 10,000 psi	• Hardness: R75 • UV Resistance: Good • Clear • Rigid • Specific Gravity: 1.20
Good resistance (minor attack) to Alcohols and vegetable oils
Limited resistance (moderate attack and suitable for short term use only) to Aldehydes
Poor resistance (not recommended for use with) with Concentrated Acids, Bases, Esters, Aliphatic Hydrocarbons, Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Halogenated Hydrocarbons, Ketones and Oxidizing Agents
Polypropylene Fabrication:		Additional Information:
• Great chemical resistance makes Polypropylene a popular choice for plating and chemical tanks, as well as laboratory cabinetry and semi-conductor bench tops • This material machines well and is available in many profiles Propylene is autoclaveable for usage in biohazardous environments • Other uses include fittings and connectors, storage containers, sinks, and hoods • The best joining method is hot air or nitrogen welding. Can be mechanically joined with screws or rivets. Ultrasonic inserts work well		• Chemical Properties A-F • Chemical Properties G-Z • Physical Properties • Use and Care of Plastics The downloads above are Adobe PDF files and require Adobe Acrobat Reader	ABS Acetal Acrylic HDPE LDPE	Nylon PC PP PTFE PVC