Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer obtained from the polymerisation ofpropylene, a by-product of petroleum refining. It is divided into three main groups: Polypropylene copolymer, Polypropylene homopolymer and Polypropylene copolymer random. PP is the basic plastic with the lowest density, between 0.895 and 0.92 g/cm3, and is characterised by its mechanical properties, its high resistance to various acids, chemical solvents, and its dual task as a plastic and as a fibre.

Types of Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene Copolymer (PPC)

It is composed of ethylene-propylene block copolymers and is characterised by its high flexibility and higher thermal stability and stress-cracking resistance than PPH (polypropylene homopolymer).

Polypropylene homopolymer (PPH)

Polypropylene homopolymer is a polypropylene obtained from the polymerisation of pure propylene. Its high strength-to-weight ratio, good solubility and easy machinability make it the most common polypropylene. The main use of nPPH is in the chemical industry, due to its high corrosion resistance and good thermal stability.

Random-Copolymer Polypropylene (PPR)

As the name suggests, Random copolymer polypropylene is composed of polymer chains with irregularly or randomly arranged ethylene or propylene units. It has a wide melting temperature range and is noted for its gloss, malleability, and transparency. Its impact strength is higher than that of Polypropylene Homopolymer (PPH).

Applications of Polypropylene (PP)

The main applications of Polypropylene are syringes, textiles, prosthetics, automotive components, food containers, films and adhesives.