8 - Performance characteristics of polymers - Thermoplastics

Question 1

LDPE

Answer 1

Tough, chemical resistant, weather proof, available in translucent. Low rigidity.

Safe working temp: 65*C

Squeezy detergent bottles, toys, carrier bags, bin liners, food packaging

Question 2

HDPE

Answer 2

Tough, available in translucent, weather and chemical resistant, more rigid

Safe working temp: 65*C

Chemical drums, jerry cans, toys, kitchenware, buckets

Question 3

Polypropylene (PP)

Answer 3

Available in translucent, good chemical resistance, tough, good fatigue resistance (can hinge)

Safe working temp: 100*C

Rope, folders, food containers (tupperware)

Question 4

High-impact polystyrene (HIPS)

Answer 4

Hard, rigid, tough, available in translucent

Safe working temp: 70*C

Yoghurt pots, single use cups, toilet seats

Question 5

ABS

Answer 5

Tough, hard, available in opaque

Safe working temp: 80*C

Remote control casing, calculator casing, landline phones, domestic appliances

Question 6

PMMA (Acrylic)

Answer 6

Tough, hard, chemical resistance, available in translucent

Safe working temp: 95*C

Car light casings, laser-cut items

Question 7

Nylon

Answer 7

Tough, corrosion resistant, temperature resistance, low friction coefficient (less force to slide something across it)

Safe working temp: 150*C

Textiles, cable ties, curtain rails

Question 8

Rigid polyvinyl chloride (uPVC)

Answer 8

Rigid, opaque, tough, hard, good weathering and chemical resistance

Safe working temp: 95*C

Window frames, gutters, water pipes, bank cards

Question 9

Flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Answer 9

Available in translucent, tough, flexible, good weather and chemical resistance

Safe working temp: 95*C

Hose popes, cable insulation, inflatable products, tubing, seat covers