Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene (PP) is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic widely used in industry for its exceptional mechanical and chemical properties. It is derived from the polymerisation of propylene, a hydrocarbon obtained from petroleum.

Main features

Resistance: PP is renowned for its high resistance to tensile strength, fatigue, chemicals and high temperatures.
Lightweight: Its low density makes it easy to handle and transport.
Flexibility: PP can be produced in a variety of forms, from rigid materials to the most flexible.
Insulation: It offers excellent thermal and electrical insulation properties.
Impact resistance: PP is able to absorb impact without breaking easily.

Applications

Thanks to its many qualities, PP has a multitude of applications in various sectors:

Packaging: Manufacture of stretch film, bottles, pots and trays for food and hygiene products.
Automotive: Production of body parts, bumpers, dashboards and internal components.
Textiles: Manufacture of synthetic fibres for clothing, carpets and rugs.
Construction: Production of pipes, fittings, profiles and insulation panels.
Medical: Manufacture of sterilisable medical equipment, syringes and containers.

The different types of polypropylene

There are different types of PP, each with its own specific characteristics:

PP homopolymer: The most common, it offers a good balance between rigidity and flexibility.
PP copolymer: More flexible and impact-resistant, it is used for applications requiring a certain degree of elasticity.
PP block copolymer: Combines the properties of homopolymers and copolymers, offering great versatility.