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POLYPROPYLENE 101

A simplified introduction to the material we know as Polypropylene.

Polypropylene was first produced in 1954 and is one of the major types of commodity plastics. It is the third largest volume polymer after polyethylene and PVC, with about 55.9 Metric Tons produced. It is also considered a low-end engineering resin, especially if reinforced with glass fiber or minerals. Polypropylene is a simple molecule composed of hydrogen and carbon atoms but it can be found in a diverse array of applications from film (BOPP), food packaging, bags, containers, toys, automotive parts, fibers and fabrics, pipes and fittings and furniture.

Polypropylene can be broken down into three main types:

  • PP Homopolymer (isotactic)
  • PP Random Copolymer
  • PP Impact Copolymer (heterophasic)

PP-101 Guide Cover

POLYPROPYLENE 101

A simplified introduction to the material we know as Polypropylene.