Polypropylene Advantages:
- Chemical Resistance: Polypropylene exhibits excellent resistance to many chemical solvents, acids, and bases, making it suitable for applications where exposure to corrosive substances is a concern, such as chemical tanks, laboratory equipment, and battery cases.
- Low-cost: Polypropylene is a commodity material, resulting in lower costs for most applications.
- Low Moisture Absorption: Polypropylene has low moisture absorption, which makes it suitable for outdoor applications and environments with high humidity levels, as it resists swelling and dimensional changes.
- Recyclability: Polypropylene is widely recyclable, contributing to sustainability efforts in various industries.
- Resistance to Fatigue: Polypropylene exhibits good resistance to fatigue, making it suitable for applications involving repetitive stress or cyclic loading, such as hinges and living hinges in packaging and automotive parts.
- Food Contact Approval: Polypropylene is approved for use in food contact applications due to its inertness and compliance with food safety regulations. It is commonly used in food packaging, containers, and kitchenware.
Despite its many advantages, polypropylene does have some limitations. It can degrade under prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can affect its mechanical properties and appearance. Additionally, it may not be suitable for high-temperature applications exceeding its thermal limits (175F or higher).