The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Amorphous and Semi-Crystalline
Commodity Thermoplastics
Materials, properties and applications.
Prepared by the IAPD Education Committee (Module 3)
Presented courtesy of Modern Plastics, Inc.
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
IAPD THERMOPLASTICS RECTANGLE
IMIDE MATERIALS
Key Characteristics: Materials:
Very High Cost Per Pound PI
Excellent Properties Above 400°F PAI
Excellent Electrical Properties PBI
Excellent Dimensional Stability
Low Coefficient of Friction
AMORPHOUS HIGH PERFORMANCE PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE HIGH PERFORMACE PLASTICS
Key Characteristics Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
High Cost Polysulfone High Cost PVDF
High Temperature Polyetherimide High Temperature PTFE
SEM -I CRY STALLINE PLAST ICS
AM OR PHO US PLASTICS
High Strength & Good Stiffness Polyethersulfone High Strength ECTFE
Good Chemical Resistance Polyarylsulfone Good Electrical Properties FEP
Transparency Outstanding Chemical Resistance PFA
Hot Water & Steam Resistance Low Coefficient of Friction PPS
Good Toughness PEEK
AMORPHOUS ENGINEERING PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE ENGINEERING PLASTICS
Key Characteristics: Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
Moderate Cost Polycarbonate Moderate Cost Nylon
Moderate Temperature Resistance Modified PPO Moderate Temperature Resistance Acetal
Moderate Strength Modified PPE Moderate Strength PET
Good Impact Resistance Thermoplastic Urethane Good Chemical Resistance PBT
Translucency Good Bearing and Wear Properties UHMW-PE
Good Dimensional Stability Low Coefficient of Friction
Good Optical Qualities Difficult to Bond
AMORPHOUS COMMODITY PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE COMMODITY PLASTICS
Key Characteristics: Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
Low Cost Acrylic Low Cost Polyethylene
Low Temperature Resistance] Polystyrene Low Temperature Resistance Polypropylene
Low Strength ABS Low Strength Polymetnylpentene(TPX)
Good Dimensional Stability PVC Excellent Chemical Resistance
Bond Well PETG Low Coefficient of Friction
Typically Transparent CAB Near Zero Moisture Absorption
Very Good Electrical Properties
Good Toughness
AMORPHOUS PLASTICS KEY CHARACTERISTICS: SEMI-CRYSTALLINE PLASTICS KEY CHARACTERISTICS:
Soften Over a Broad Range Of Temperatures Sharp Melting Point
Easy to Thermoform Difficult to Thermoform
Tend to Be Transparent Tend to Be Opaque
Bond Well Using Adhesives and Solvents Difficult To Bond Using Adhesives and Solvents
Prone To Stress Cracking Good Resistance To Stress Cracking
Poor Fatigue Resistance Good Fatigue Resistance
Stuctural Applications Only (Not for Bearing & Wear) Good For Bearing and Wear, As Well As Structural Applications
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Amorphous Commodity Thermoplastics
Key Characteristics
• Low cost
• Low temperature resistance
• Low strength
• Good dimensional stability
• Bonds well
• Typically transparent
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Amorphous Commodity Thermoplastics
Materials
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
• Polystyrene (PS)
• Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG)
• Cellulous acetate butyrate (CAB)
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylic (PMMA)
Strengths
• Availability of all ranges of optical
transparency, including opacity
• Rigidity
• Surface hardness
• Half the weight of glass
• Heat resistance
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylic (PMMA)
Limitations
• Grain effect
• Discolor with high UV exposure
• Attacked by organic solvents
• Limited chemical resistance
• Poor wear and abrasion resistance
• Low impact strength
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylic (PMMA)
Applications
• Protective glazing
• Windows
• Toys
• Point of purchase (POP) displays
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polystyrene (PS)
Strengths
• Inexpensive
• Easy to bond
• Quick to bond
• Easy to decorate
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polystyrene (PS)
Limitations
• Low impact resistance
• Brittle after UV exposure
• Cannot be used at elevated temperatures
• Mechanical stress
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polystyrene (PS)
Applications
• Refrigeration
• Disposable beverage glasses
• Medical devices
• Disposable laboratory products
• Wood replacement products
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Strengths
• Good impact resistance
• Easily formable
• Many different formulations
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Limitations
• Grain effect
• Will discolor with high UV exposure
• Attacked by organic solvents
• Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture)
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Applications
• Aircraft interiors
• Computer housings
• Cassette holders
• Mass transit components
• Wall coverings
• Consumer electronics
• Appliances
• Automotive
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Strengths
• Low cost
• Good chemical resistance
• Versatile
• Naturally UV resistant
• Good strength
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Limitations
• Heat sensitive
• Low impact strength
• Poor wear resistance
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Applications
• Pipe, valves and fittings
• Thermoformed parts for transportation, exhibits and
machinery parts
• Point of purchase displays
• Pollution control equipment parts
• Packaging
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Modified Polyethylene Terephthalate
Glycol (PETG)
Strengths
• Optical transparency
• Good toughness
• Easy to fabricate
• Easy to form
• Ability to be sterilized
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Modified Polyethylene Terephthalate
Glycol (PETG)
Limitations
• Limited UV resistance
• Cannot be used above 60°-66°C/140°-150°F
range
• Low softening point precludes sterilization
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Modified Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol
(PETG)
Applications
• Packaging
• Graphic arts
• Point of purchase (POP) displays
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB)
Strengths
• Tough at low temperatures
• Compounded easily for unique applications
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB)
Limitations
• Not compatible with other materials
• Not self-extinguishing
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB)
Applications
• Cash register keys
• Tool handles
• Windshields
• Thermoformed signs
• Trim stripping
• Window well covers
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Semi-Crystalline Commodity Plastics
Key Characteristics
• Low cost, strength and temperature resistance
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Low COF
• Near zero moisture absorption
• Very good electrical properties
• Good toughness
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Semi-Crystalline Commodity Plastics
Materials
• Polyethylene (PE)
– High density polyethylene (HDPE)
– Low density polyethylene (LDPE), (LLDPE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polymethylpentene (PMP)
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP)
Polymethylpentene (PMP)
Key Characteristics
• Partially crystalline, partially amorphous
• Largest family are the polyolefins
• Cost, benefits and limitations are different for each
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyethylenes (PE)
Key Characteristics
• Classified by density and molecular weight
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Zero moisture absorption
• Light weight (1/8 weight of steel)
• Excellent insulator
• Low COF
• High impact strength
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polyethylenes (PE)
Applications
• Packaging
• Wire and cable
• Industrial
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
Key Characteristics
• Good chemical resistance
• Very flexible
• High impact strength
• Low heat resistance (60-79°C/140-175°F)
• Used extensively in packaging industry and for
prosthetic devices
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Key Characteristics
• Higher rigidity and tensile strength than low and
medium density polyethylenes
• Good formability
• Slightly lower impact strength than LDPE
• Virgin grades are FDA and USDA approved
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Applications
• Films
• Industrial trash bags
• Liners
• Shipping bags
• Marine industry
• Playgrounds
• Bathrooms
• Pipe
• Automotive
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polypropylenes (PP)
Key Characteristics
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Excellent fatigue strength — referred to as “living
hinge”
• Lower impact strength than polyethylenes
• Available in homopolymer and co-polymer
• Co-polymer offers better impact, clarity and cold
temperature properties
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polypropylenes (PP)
Applications
• Packaging
• Automotive
• Consumer/durable goods
• Vacuum formed parts
• Fiber/carpet
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polymethylpentene (PMP)
Key Characteristics
• High transparency, even in thick sections
• Very light weight (.83 specific gravity)
• Higher heat resistance than other grades in this group
—compares favorably to PTFE up to 148.89°C/300°F
• Good electrical properties
• Low-temperature impact strength
• Very brittle
• Poor UV resistance
• USDA compliant
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
Polymethypentene (PMP)
Applications
• Medical products
• Food processing equipment
• Microwavable packaging
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
The International Association of Plastics Distributors
IAPD THERMOPLASTICS RECTANGLE
IMIDE MATERIALS
Key Characteristics: Materials:
Very High Cost Per Pound PI
Excellent Properties Above 400°F PAI
Excellent Electrical Properties PBI
Excellent Dimensional Stability
Low Coefficient of Friction
AMORPHOUS HIGH PERFORMANCE PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE HIGH PERFORMACE PLASTICS
Key Characteristics Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
High Cost Polysulfone High Cost PVDF
High Temperature Polyetherimide High Temperature PTFE
SEM -I CRY STALLINE PLAST ICS
AM OR PHO US PLASTICS
High Strength & Good Stiffness Polyethersulfone High Strength ECTFE
Good Chemical Resistance Polyarylsulfone Good Electrical Properties FEP
Transparency Outstanding Chemical Resistance PFA
Hot Water & Steam Resistance Low Coefficient of Friction PPS
Good Toughness PEEK
AMORPHOUS ENGINEERING PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE ENGINEERING PLASTICS
Key Characteristics: Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
Moderate Cost Polycarbonate Moderate Cost Nylon
Moderate Temperature Resistance Modified PPO Moderate Temperature Resistance Acetal
Moderate Strength Modified PPE Moderate Strength PET
Good Impact Resistance Thermoplastic Urethane Good Chemical Resistance PBT
Translucency Good Bearing and Wear Properties UHMW-PE
Good Dimensional Stability Low Coefficient of Friction
Good Optical Qualities Difficult to Bond
AMORPHOUS COMMODITY PLASTICS SEMI-CRYSTALLINE COMMODITY PLASTICS
Key Characteristics: Materials: Key Characteristics: Materials:
Low Cost Acrylic Low Cost Polyethylene
Low Temperature Resistance] Polystyrene Low Temperature Resistance Polypropylene
Low Strength ABS Low Strength Polymetnylpentene(TPX)
Good Dimensional Stability PVC Excellent Chemical Resistance
Bond Well PETG Low Coefficient of Friction
Typically Transparent CAB Near Zero Moisture Absorption
Very Good Electrical Properties
Good Toughness
AMORPHOUS PLASTICS KEY CHARACTERISTICS: SEMI-CRYSTALLINE PLASTICS KEY CHARACTERISTICS:
Soften Over a Broad Range Of Temperatures Sharp Melting Point
Easy to Thermoform Difficult to Thermoform
Tend to Be Transparent Tend to Be Opaque
Bond Well Using Adhesives and Solvents Difficult To Bond Using Adhesives and Solvents
Prone To Stress Cracking Good Resistance To Stress Cracking
Poor Fatigue Resistance Good Fatigue Resistance
Stuctural Applications Only (Not for Bearing & Wear) Good For Bearing and Wear, As Well As Structural Applications
The IAPD Plastics Primer, Module 3
