What does PP stand for?
PP is an acronym for PolyPropylene and is a thermoplastic manufactured from propylene gas in presence of a catalyst (such as titanium chloride).
What is PP's plastic number?
PP is recycling number 5 and is used in both structural plastic and as a fiber.
What are some properties of PP?
- PP is light weight.
- PP has densities between 0.90-0.92 g/cm3.
- High tensile strength (ie., high resistance to stress and cracking).
- Resistant to fatigue (used for plastic hinge applications).
- Excellent colorfast properties.
- High operational temperatures (around 160 °C).
- Excellent dielectric properties (poor conductor of electricity but efficient supporter of electrostatic fields).
- Non-toxic, non-staining.
- Easy to produce & assemble, versatile, and relatively low in cost (compared to PS, PC, ABS).
- Additives such as pigments, carbon black, rubbers, antioxidants, and UV stabilizer can be used to improve the properties of PP.
What are some products made from PP?
- A common use of PP is in food containers. PP is naturally BPA free and has a high melting point making it dishwasher and microwave safe.
- Due to its resistance to fatigue, most hinge type products are also made from PP (such as flip-top bottles, lock&lock Tupperware, etc…).
- PP is often used for storage containers such as Rubbermaid and Sterilite containers. The softer, rubbery lids are made of a softer plastic, usually LDPE.
- Products made from PVC and HDPE can also be made with PP. For instance, the infamous PVC piping can also be manufactured using PP. HDPE furniture such as tables and chairs can also be substituted using PP.
- PP is commonly used in non-woven fabrics (used in diapers and or sanitary products).
- PP is commonly used for producing ropes, carpets and rugs.
- Many stationary products such as plastic folders, notebook covers, paper protectors, storage boxes are also made from PP. These products are made through the plastic extrusion process.
- BOPP or Biaxially Oriented PolyPropylene is an exceptionally clear type of PP that is excellent for packaging (packaging for artistics and retail products).
- PP injection molded parts.
Can PP be recycled?
Yes, PP is 100% recyclable with large demand in China.
PolyPropylene - PP Plastic