General information - Masterbatch - Polymer Compounding - Toll Compounding - PlasColour

ABA - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Acrylate *

A less common variant of ABS formulated for special applications. Further information not yet available on this page. See ABS

ABS - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene *

One of the most versatile plastics available, with broad processing windows and offering a wide range of grades giving good physical toughness, excellent surface finish and chemical resistance.

Special versions include – improved UV stability, high gloss, heat resistance, electroplating, flame retardancy (UL 94 V0), and glass reinforced grades.

Blending/alloying with other polymers, such as polycarbonate or nylon, further improves the properties. This is dealt with under the heading of Polymer Alloys.

ABS resins are processable by all conventional means and are easy to machine, weld (heat, solvent or adhesive), and print. Snap fit assembly is also a feature of ABS properties. Main areas of application are in the lower engineering fields of domestic appliances, business machines, electrical goods, automotive interior trim, industrial applications (e.g. machine guards), drain, waste and vent pipes. Many standard grades have FDA, European and Japanese food accreditations.

Variants:

ABA - ACRYLONITRILE BUTADIENE ACRYLIC
ASA - ACRYLONITRILE STYRENE ACRYLATE
MBS - METHACRYLATE BUTADIENE STYRENE
ACS - ACRYLONITRILE CHLORINATED STYRENE

Recycling Code: 7

Acetal/HOM - Acetal Homopolymer *

Acetals are highly crystalline polymers with consequently high heat resistance and stiffness. They have good toughness (even at low temperatures), low moisture absorption, good chemical resistance (except to oxidising agents and strong acids), and low coefficient of friction. There are two types, homo-polymer and copolymer. The copolymer is superior with respect to heat and hydrolysis resistance and exhibits easier processing. Homo-polymers are tougher. Both types are resistant to automotive fuels, oils and greases.

They can be processed by injection, blow moulding, and extruded to sheet and profile. Profile is generally used for machined prototypes and short run components.

Applications include injection moulded and machined gears, bearings, conveyor components and housings, plumbing and irrigation components, pump housings, valves and fittings, cams and drive units, and small automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Acetal/POM - Acetal Copolymer *

Acetals are highly crystalline polymers with consequently high heat resistance and stiffness. They have good toughness (even at low temperatures), low moisture absorption, good chemical resistance (except to oxidising agents and strong acids), and low coefficient of friction. There are two types, homo-polymer and copolymer. The copolymer is superior with respect to heat and hydrolysis resistance and exhibits easier processing. Homo-polymers are tougher. Both types are resistant to automotive fuels, oils and greases.

They can be processed by injection, blow moulding, and extruded to sheet and profile. Profile is generally used for machined prototypes and short run components.

Applications include injection moulded and machined gears, bearings, conveyor components and housings, plumbing and irrigation components, pump housings, valves and fittings, cams and drive units, and small automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Acrylic/PMMA - Polymethyl Methacrylate *

These polymers are best known for their excellent clarity and weathering properties. They have moderate chemical resistance (poor with chlorinated or aromatic hydrocarbons, esters or ketones), and toughness, although impact resistant versions are available that are made with the inclusion of toughening co-monomers such as acrylic rubbers.

The resins are hygroscopic and may need pre-drying before processing. Acrylic products can be prepared and processed by casting sheet from monomer(s) between glass plates, extrusion and thermoforming, and injection moulding. The resins have high melt viscosities but this is not detrimental for the moulding process.

High quality cast sheet is used for production of outdoor decorative signs and can be printed, thermoformed and/or machined for point- of- sale display units. Extruded plain and patterned sheet is used in picture framing, secondary glazing, shower cubicles, domed skylights and light diffusers. Light diffusers are also injection moulded as are lenses, tap and door knobs, torch reflectors, mobile phone fronts, and medical diagnostic kits requiring high UV transmission.

Recycling Code: 7

ACS - Acrylonitrile Chlorinated PE Styrene

A material to similar to ABS, but with excellent inherent flame retardancy. Applications include fire prevention equipment, electrical housings and some household/office appliances and small business machines.

Further information not yet available on this page. For information on specific grades or brand names try logging on to 'Database & Material Data Sheets'.

Recycling Code: 7

ASA - Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylonitrile *

A material similar to ABS but with superior light and weather resistance.

Applications include:- outdoor electrical fittings, satellite dish components, automotive outside trim, luggage containers, conservatory trim, and construction applications such as gutters and fittings.

Recycling Code: 7

BDS - Butadiene Styrene Block Copolymer *

A range of CLEAR block co-polymers that have been specially developed for the injection and extrusion markets. Complemented by inherent reprocessing and recycling capability, these materials can be chosen for a variety of transparent applications such as packaging, medical items, tools etc.

Used alone, it enables the production of high quality transparent items with excellent impact and hinge properties. In combination with other thermoplastic resins, such as GPPS, it confers a dramatic improvement in impact and tear properties to the finished articles, while maintaining a high level of transparency.

Grades are particularly suitable for uncoloured, printed and tinted applications.

Injection grades comply with the European 89/109/EC directive and with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on food contact.

Variants: SBC SBS

Recycling Code: 6

CA - Cellulose Acetate

The cellulosic group of materials are natural polymers obtained by modifying cellulose. Cellulose Acetate was the first thermoplastic to be injection moulded in the 1930's. They have high softening points and can only be processed after compounding with plasticising additives. When plasticised they can be injection, compression, blow moulded, extruded and laminated.

The materials have good resistance to water and chemicals. Improved weathering properties can be achieved using suitable additives. However, Cellulosics are best known for their brilliancy whilst possessing good electrical properties. They are easily machined and solvent polished.

Major applications are tool handles, spectacle frames, tooth and hairbrush handles, point of sale presentation, display and packaging, and audio tapes.

Recycling Code: 7

CAB - Cellulose Acetate Butyrate *

The cellulosic group of materials are natural polymers obtained by modifying cellulose. Cellulose Acetate was the first thermoplastic to be injection moulded in the 1930's. They have high softening points and can only be processed after compounding with plasticising additives. When plasticised they can be injection, compression, blow moulded, extruded and laminated.

The materials have good resistance to water and chemicals. Improved weathering properties can be achieved using suitable additives. However, Cellulosics are best known for their brilliancy whilst possessing good electrical properties. They are easily machined and solvent polished.

Major applications are tool handles, spectacle frames, tooth and hairbrush handles, point of sale presentation, display and packaging, and audio tapes.

Recycling Code: 7

CAP - Cellulose Acetate Propionate

The cellulosic group of materials are natural polymers obtained by modifying cellulose. Cellulose Acetate was the first thermoplastic to be injection moulded in the 1930's. They have high softening points and can only be processed after compounding with plasticising additives. When plasticised they can be injection, compression, blow moulded, extruded and laminated.

The materials have good resistance to water and chemicals. Improved weathering properties can be achieved using suitable additives. However, Cellulosics are best known for their brilliancy whilst possessing good electrical properties. They are easily machined and solvent polished.

Major applications are tool handles, spectacle frames, tooth and hairbrush handles, point of sale presentation, display and packaging, and audio tapes.

Recycling Code: 7

CP - Cellulose Proprionate

The cellulosic group of materials are natural polymers obtained by modifying cellulose. Cellulose Acetate was the first thermoplastic to be injection moulded in the 1930's. They have high softening points and can only be processed after compounding with plasticising additives. When plasticised they can be injection, compression, blow moulded, extruded and laminated.

The materials have good resistance to water and chemicals. Improved weathering properties can be achieved using suitable additives. However, Cellulosics are best known for their brilliancy whilst possessing good electrical properties. They are easily machined and solvent polished.

Major applications are tool handles, spectacle frames, tooth and hairbrush handles, point of sale presentation, display and packaging, and audio tapes.

Recycling Code: 7

EVA - Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Copolymer (EVAC) *

The description covers a broad range of grades with vinyl acetate contents between 2 and 50%. Compared with LDPE, they are less crystalline and more polar, ranging from thermoplastic (low vinyl acetate level) to elastomeric (high vinyl acetate level). At levels vinyl acetate levels above 50%, the resins are completely amorphous.

With a Melt- Flow Index range of 0.3 to 1000+ gms./10 mins. This gives an indication of the wide range of material grades available.

Increasing vinyl acetate content improves the clarity, low temperature flexibility, stress crack resistance, and impact strength. There is also an increase in the "tackiness", in adhesion properties and solubility in common solvents. There is a corresponding decrease in the softening and heat sealing temperature, and barrier properties.

EVA's can be satisfactorily processed by all the normal techniques. As a general guide, resins used for injection moulding have vinyl acetate levels in the 2 to 10% range, extrusion in the range of 5 to 30%, and for blow moulding levels are usually below 5%.

They have limited thermal stability, which necessitates that processing temperatures are maintained below 230(C, above which the acetoxy bonds break to yield acetic acid.

EVA packaging film is by far the largest application area, being used for meat and poultry wrap, cereal/carton liners, stretch film, produce bags, bag-in-box, etc. Also included in this area are the extrusion coated polyester, cellophane, and polypropylene films used for cheese wrap, medical film, etc.

The second largest market for EVA is for adhesives, carpet backing and wax based coatings, where grades are sometimes modified with additives.

Usage for wire and cable covering, where the EVA can be more easily cross-linked than the homo-polymers, and for the carrier for some 'universal' masterbatches, is the third most important area of application.

Grades are also used for injection moulded of bottle closures, shoes, blow moulded bellows.

Recycling Code: 7

GPPS - General Purpose Polystyrene *

GPPS is a glass clear rigid amorphous polymer with excellent gloss, good electrical properties, and a broad processing window. It is not moisture sensitive but it is brittle.

The addition of polybutadiene during polymerisation produces a tough polymer, HIPS, which is opaque and less rigid than GPPS. It does, however, have the forgiving processing properties of GPPS, which make these materials probably the easiest processing of all thermoplastics. However, they have limitations on chemical and heat resistance.

Both versions can be easily processed by all conventional techniques. Compounding with suitable additives produce light stable, anti static and flame retardant grades. Variants also include high impact/gloss and high impact/transparent grades.

The most important applications for the polystyrenes are in sheet thermoformed food packaging and distribution containers (yoghurt pots, dairy containers and vending cups) where around fifty percent of all polystyrene is used. Other extrusion applications are medical packaging, where resistance to gamma radiation and ethylene oxide sterilisation is good (autoclaving is not possible due to low heat resistance). Other notable applications include refrigerator cabinets and door liners, expanded GPPS sheet for food trays and sanitary ware. Big injection moulding markets are:- audio and video equipment, consumer electronics, business equipment, with GPPS finding a large market for medical applications, cosmetic packaging and toys.

Recycling Code: 6

HDPE - High Density Polyethylene (PE-HD) *

More polyethylenes are used in Western Europe than any other polymer type, due to their excellent chemical resistance, ease of processing, relatively low cost, and low density. There are three polyethylene forms.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), density range 0.910 - 0.930
Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), density range 0.915 – 0.940
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), density range 0.941 – 0.965

The property which most defines the characteristics of these different versions is their crystallinity of which density is an indicator. Hence LDPE is less crystalline than LLDPE, which is less crystalline than HDPE. This difference manifests itself in the change from relatively soft and flexible LDPE materials to the harder HDPE types. The resins can be further modified by compounding with numerous additives, such as stabilisers, anti-blocks, slip, antistatic, nucleating agents, clarifiers, flame retardants, cross linking agents, and fillers.

Processing is easy, as PE resins and compounds can be converted by film blowing, injection moulding, blow moulding, rotational moulding and extrusion processes.

Applications are diverse, but the biggest usage is as film in the forms of stretch, shrink and cling films; grocery, laundry, dry cleaning and rubbish bags; fridge and freezer food storage packaging, and bags. Other significant uses are for injection moulded food and dairy product containers, blow moulded bottles for water, detergents, bleach, chemicals, oils and many other products. Injection moulded housewares, brush handles, dust and wheelie bins, are also important, as are rotationally moulded industrial and agricultural storage containers, and large toys. In the extrusion field, drain, gas, irrigation and sewage pipe is made, and cross-linkable tube is used for hot water systems. PE is also used for wire and cable insulation, blow moulded fuel tanks in cars, and industrial packaging for bulk handling and transportation.

Recycling Code: 2

HIPS - High Impact Polystyrene *

The addition of polybutadiene during polymerisation produces a tough polymer, HIPS, which is opaque and less rigid than GPPS. It does, however, have the forgiving processing properties of GPPS, which make these materials probably the easiest processing of all thermoplastics. However, they have limitations on chemical and heat resistance.

Both versions can be easily processed by all conventional techniques. Compounding with suitable additives produce light stable, anti static and flame retardant grades. Variants also include high impact/gloss and high impact/transparent grades.

The most important applications for the polystyrenes are in sheet thermoformed food packaging and distribution containers (yoghurt pots, dairy containers and vending cups) where around fifty percent of all polystyrene is used. Other extrusion applications are medical packaging, where resistance to gamma radiation and ethylene oxide sterilisation is good (autoclaving is not possible due to low heat resistance). Other notable applications include refrigerator cabinets and door liners, expanded GPPS sheet for food trays and sanitary ware. Big injection moulding markets are:- audio and video equipment, consumer electronics, business equipment, with GPPS finding a large market for medical applications, cosmetic packaging and toys.

Recycling Code: 6

LCP - Liquid Crystal Polymer

The liquid crystal range of polymers is characterised by high crystalline melting point, solvent resistance, inherent flame retardancy (to UL 94 V0), excellent barrier properties and low co-efficients of friction. They are available unfilled or reinforced with glass fibre, carbon fibre or minerals.

In the molten form these materials are shear sensitive, which aids rapid injection moulding of thin walled and detailed components. Extrusion of thin films is not difficult and blow-moulding grades are under development.

This material finds use in sophisticated electrical applications where their heat and solvent resistance are exploited by soldering in situ. Their excellent barrier properties are put to use in thin section multi layer structures where certain types are found to be better than EVOH or PVDC. Because they demonstrate high strength to weight ratios they are coming into use as metal replacements in medical devices.

Recycling Code: 7

LDPE - Low Density Polyethylene (PE-LD) *

More polyethylenes are used in Western Europe than any other polymer type, due to their excellent chemical resistance, ease of processing, relatively low cost, and low density. There are three polyethylene forms.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), density range 0.910 - 0.930
Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), density range 0.915 – 0.940
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), density range 0.941 – 0.965

The property which most defines the characteristics of these different versions is their crystallinity of which density is an indicator. Hence LDPE is less crystalline than LLDPE, which is less crystalline than HDPE. This difference manifests itself in the change from relatively soft and flexible LDPE materials to the harder HDPE types. The resins can be further modified by compounding with numerous additives, such as stabilisers, anti-blocks, slip, antistatic, nucleating agents, clarifiers, flame retardants, cross linking agents, and fillers.

Processing is easy, as PE resins and compounds can be converted by film blowing, injection moulding, blow moulding, rotational moulding and extrusion processes.

Applications are diverse, but the biggest usage is as film in the forms of stretch, shrink and cling films; grocery, laundry, dry cleaning and rubbish bags; fridge and freezer food storage packaging, and bags. Other significant uses are for injection moulded food and dairy product containers, blow moulded bottles for water, detergents, bleach, chemicals, oils and many other products. Injection moulded housewares, brush handles, dust and wheelie bins, are also important, as are rotationally moulded industrial and agricultural storage containers, and large toys. In the extrusion field, drain, gas, irrigation and sewage pipe is made, and cross-linkable tube is used for hot water systems. PE is also used for wire and cable insulation, blow moulded fuel tanks in cars, and industrial packaging for bulk handling and transportation.

Recycling Code: 4

LLDPE - Linear low density polyethylene

More polyethylenes are used in Western Europe than any other polymer type, due to their excellent chemical resistance, ease of processing, relatively low cost, and low density. There are three polyethylene forms.

Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), density range 0.910 - 0.930
Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), density range 0.915 – 0.940
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), density range 0.941 – 0.965

The property which most defines the characteristics of these different versions is their crystallinity of which density is an indicator. Hence LDPE is less crystalline than LLDPE, which is less crystalline than HDPE. This difference manifests itself in the change from relatively soft and flexible LDPE materials to the harder HDPE types. The resins can be further modified by compounding with numerous additives, such as stabilisers, anti-blocks, slip, antistatic, nucleating agents, clarifiers, flame retardants, cross linking agents, and fillers.

Processing is easy, as PE resins and compounds can be converted by film blowing, injection moulding, blow moulding, rotational moulding and extrusion processes.

Applications are diverse, but the biggest usage is as film in the forms of stretch, shrink and cling films; grocery, laundry, dry cleaning and rubbish bags; fridge and freezer food storage packaging, and bags. Other significant uses are for injection moulded food and dairy product containers, blow moulded bottles for water, detergents, bleach, chemicals, oils and many other products. Injection moulded housewares, brush handles, dust and wheelie bins, are also important, as are rotationally moulded industrial and agricultural storage containers, and large toys. In the extrusion field, drain, gas, irrigation and sewage pipe is made, and cross-linkable tube is used for hot water systems. PE is also used for wire and cable insulation, blow moulded fuel tanks in cars, and industrial packaging for bulk handling and transportation.

Recycling Code: 2

MBS - Methacrylate Butadiene Styrene *

A material similar to ABS, but with a good balance of transparency and base colour. Can be used for pipe, sheet and moulded parts where transparency and toughness are required. Can also be used for impact modification of other polymers, particularly with PVC and engineering polymers.

Recycling Code: 7

MDPE - Medium Density Polyethylene (PE-MD) *

Blends of LD and HD to produce medium density grades of polyethylene where the balance of hardness and tensile modulus needs to be a feature of a components' property. See HDPE.

Noryl *

Polyphenylene oxide (Noryl) is also known as PPE, or polyphenylene ether and is an amorphous, heat resistant polymer with outstanding electrical properties, resistant to both acids and bases, and with inherent flame retardancy.

Because it is so heat resistant, it is difficult to process, and for this reason it is usually alloyed with polystyrene (GPPS and HIPS) to produce a more easy processable range of materials. In this form it is sometimes referred to as "modified PPO" or often just 'PPO'. Strictly speaking, it is an alloy.

Modification with GPPS or HIPS reduces heat resistance (the glass transition drops from around 150(C to the 100(C to 135(C region), but in the latter case improves impact properties. In modified form it can be processed by all the usual techniques. The modified grades can be repeatedly steam sterilised and are easily made flame retardant with halogen free systems.

Applications range from medical and business machinery to automotive interior and exterior components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 11 - Polyamide 11 or PA 11

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 12 - Polyamide 12 or PA 12

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 46 - Polyamide 46 or PA46

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 6 - Polyamide 6 or PA 6 *

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 610 - Polyamide 610 or PA 610

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

Nylon 66 -Polyamide 66 or PA 66 *

By far the most important polyamides are the 6 and 6.6 versions. The numbers indicate the number of carbon atoms between active groups, one number indicates only one monomer whereas two indicates two different monomers.

Polyamides 6 and 6.6, being crystalline, are noted for their outstanding range of properties, offering high tensile strength, good resistance to creep, abrasion, heat and chemicals. High tonnages of each are compounded with reinforcing pillars such as glass fibre, mineral fillers, flame-retardants and impact modifiers. Glass and mineral fillers are used to impart greater heat resistance and to reduce moisture pickup.

Polyamides can be processed by all conventional thermoplastics processing techniques, plus casting from monomer and reaction injection moulding. The polymers must be pre-dried before processing and nozzle shut off is advisable in injection moulding. Large volumes are converted to fibres by extrusion.

Typical injection moulded applications are metal replacement in automotive parts and under bonnet components, electric and electronics, sports equipment, furniture parts and tools. Film, monofilaments and fibres, tubing, coating of wire and cable and stock profiles for machining are made by extrusion. In thin film form, co-extruded with other polymers, its barrier properties are used in food packaging.

Variants:

PA4.6 – Better temperature performance favours under-bonnet automotive applications.

PA11, PA12, PA6.12 – with reduced moisture sensitivity, used for automotive fuel feed and air brake tubing and hydraulic hose on oil platforms.

PAI Polyamide-Imide – Has good mechanical properties up to 260 C. It is available unfilled, glass or fibre reinforced and is used in aerospace applications, chemical processing plant, and electronics industries.

PEBA Polyether Block Amide is a copolymer offering a range of hardness ratings from hard rubbers to thermoplastics depending upon the ratio of components.

PPA Polyphthalamide is an aromatic polyamide which is less susceptible to moisture than the aliphatic versions (6% absorption against 9% for PA 6.6). With improved thermal stability, reinforced grades can have a continuous use temperature of 165 C, ideal for under-bonnet and automotive components.

Recycling Code: 7

PBT - Polybutylene Terephthalate *

Polybutylene Terephthalate is a semi-crystalline polyester material exhibiting good moisture and chemical resistance, high strength and heat resistance. Both un-reinforced and glass fibre or glass bead reinforced grades are available.

The material is generally injection moulded but some grades can also be extruded into sheet and profile.

Applications are mainly in the automotive area where its excellent fuel and oil resistance is put to good use. Electric lighting and electronic switchgear, where close tolerance injection moulding characteristics allow fine reproduction of intricate components, are also important areas of use.

Recycling Code: 7

PC - Polycarbonate *

Polycarbonate is an amorphous polymer offering excellent transparency and toughness, good heat resistance and electrical properties. It has low moisture absorption but must be pre-dried before processing. It is inherently flame retardant. Its processing properties and compatibility with other polymers make it an extremely useful material.

Polycarbonate is processable by all conventional techniques, although branched grades with improved melt strength are preferred for extrusion and blow mouldings. Long exposure periods to hot water or high humidity is not advisable and UV stabilisers need to be used to ensure good performance in exposed situations. Product design must take account of its relatively poor surface hardness, notch sensitivity and low resistance to solvents and fats.

Applications include food preparation and service components, kitchen appliances, water bottles, medical applications (syringes, dialysis filters), and safety glasses. Flame retardant and glass reinforced grades find use in electronics and parts where high strength and durability is required, for example in power tools. Extruded sheet is used for secondary glazing and lighting panels. Large structural components for cash machines and submarine battery cases are moulded in structural form grades. Low molecular weight grades with easy flow characteristics are used for CD's and optical storage discs.

Polycarbonate is an amorphous polymer offering excellent transparency and toughness, good heat resistance and electrical properties. It has low moisture absorption but must be pre-dried before processing. It is inherently flame retardant. Its processing properties and compatibility with other polymers make it an extremely useful material.

Polycarbonate is processable by all conventional techniques, although branched grades with improved melt strength are preferred for extrusion and blow mouldings. Long exposure periods to hot water or high humidity is not advisable and UV stabilisers need to be used to ensure good performance in exposed situations. Product design must take account of its relatively poor surface hardness, notch sensitivity and low resistance to solvents and fats.

Applications include food preparation and service components, kitchen appliances, water bottles, medical applications (syringes, dialysis filters), and safety glasses. Flame retardant and glass reinforced grades find use in electronics and parts where high strength and durability is required, for example in power tools. Extruded sheet is used for secondary glazing and lighting panels. Large structural components for cash machines and submarine battery cases are moulded in structural form grades. Low molecular weight grades with easy flow characteristics are used for CD's and optical storage discs.

Variants: Polycarbonate Alloys

Recycling Code: 7

PC/ABS - PC/ABS alloy *

The presence of ABS not only improves the low temperature toughness of the polycarbonate but also the more easy processing of a wide range of components used for the automotive and teletronics industries.

Recycling Code: 7

PC/ASA - PC/ASA alloy *

An alloy offering good toughness with excellent weather and chemical resistance. Easily processed by injection moulding or extrusion for components used in the automotive, marine and telectronics industries.

Recycling Code: 7

PC/PBT - PC/PBT alloy *

A polycarbonate alloy with improved low temperature impact properties, good chemical resistance and light stability, mainly used in the automotive industry.

Recycling Code: 7

PC/PET - PC/PET Alloy

Further information not yet available on this page. For information on specific grades or brand names try logging on to 'Database & Material Data Sheets'.

Recycling Code: 7

PEEK - Polyether Ether Ketone

PEEK is available in a range of grades which include those reinforced with fillers such as glass fibre, carbon fibre and PTFE. They have excellent heat resistance and mechanical properties, which are maintained at elevated temperatures due to crystallinity. In addition to good hydrolysis resistance, grades have good chemical resistance, low co-efficient of friction, and inherent flame retardancy. They have excellent radiation resistance and are processable by most conventional techniques, provided the melt temperature is maintained between 335(C and 365(C. Pre-drying prior to processing and also high tool temperature in the range of 160(C to 190(C is also required.

The material is commonly used in semi-conductor production, thrust washers and seals in automotive transmissions systems, chemical processing industry, pumps and compression, heavy industrial equipment, electronics, and nuclear industries.

Variants:

PAEK - Polyaryletherketone
PEK - Polyetherkotone
PK - Polyketone

Recycling Code: 7

PEI - Polyether Imide

Polyetherimide is an amorphous polymer with high heat resistance, strength and rigidity, even at elevated temperatures. With outstanding electrical properties, good chemical resistance and good processing properties, it is a versatile polymer. It has a continuous use temperature of 180 C, requiring melt temperatures of 350 C to 430 C to process.

It can be injection moulded, extruded, thermoformed and compression moulded.

It is used in automotive temperature sensors and fuel systems, transmission parts, jet engine parts, medical components requiring autoclaving, heat and corrosion resistant air and fluid handling systems, electrical and electronic components.

Recycling Code: 7

PET - Polyethylene Terephthalate

Polyethylene terephthalate is a polyester best known for its excellent barrier properties to water vapour, oxygen and carbon dioxide. It is a heat resistant polymer, with very good toughness, clarity and gloss, and good electrical properties. In homopolymer form, its crystallinity is difficult to control, but copolymers are more easy to process.

Grades can be processed by all the conventional thermoplastic processes, including fibre production.

The major fields of application are:- fibres for textiles, industrial strapping, and tyre cords; stretch blow moulded beverage bottles, pill bottles and dried food jars. It can be injection moulded and thermoformed into food packaging containers with dual oven capability.

Variants:

OPET – Oriented PET, or stretch blown PET, is the form used for beverage containers. It is also used for cooking oils, salad dressings, pharmaceuticals, and household products.

APET – Amorphous PET has outstanding clarity, gloss and grease resistance and is normally produced as sheet for thermoforming packaging.

CPET – Crystalline PET, with a wide temperature tolerance, is the version used for food packs intended to be transferred directly from the freezer (-40 C) to the oven ( 200 C). It is opaque as natural colour.

PETG – The glycol modified PET is amorphous and retains clarity in thick sections. It is used for medical and pharmaceutical applications, as well as food and personal care packaging, and blister packs.

Recycling Code: 7

PI - Polyimide

The polyimide polymers are noted for their high temperature resistance (glass transition temperature 535 C to 640 C), good electrical properties and radiation resistance. They are not good on light (UV) stability, or with caustic solutions and polar solvents, but have low coefficients of friction.

Because of their glass transition temperatures, they are not easy to process, and are mostly converted by thermosetting plastics techniques.

Applications are in the aerospace, automotive, electronics and nuclear industries, where their properties lend themselves to components such as bearings.

Recycling Code: 7

PMMA-T - Toughened Acrylic *

These polymers are best known for their excellent clarity and weathering properties. They have moderate chemical resistance (poor with chlorinated or aromatic hydrocarbons, esters or ketones), and toughness, although impact resistant versions are available that are made with the inclusion of toughening co-monomers such as acrylic rubbers.

The resins are hygroscopic and may need pre-drying before processing. Acrylic products can be prepared and processed by casting sheet from monomer(s) between glass plates, extrusion and thermoforming, and injection moulding. The resins have high melt viscosities but this is not detrimental for the moulding process.

High quality cast sheet is used for production of outdoor decorative signs and can be printed, thermoformed and/or machined for point- of- sale display units. Extruded plain and patterned sheet is used in picture framing, secondary glazing, shower cubicles, domed skylights and light diffusers. Light diffusers are also injection moulded as are lenses, tap and door knobs, torch reflectors, mobile phone fronts, and medical diagnostic kits requiring high UV transmission.

Variants: PMMA-T

Recycling Code: 7

PP Co - Copolymer polypropylene *

After Polyethylene, Polypropylene is the second most used plastic in Western Europe. It owes its position to its versatility (suitable for fibres and monofilaments) and a broad range of useful properties and processability. It has a high degree of crystallinity and heat resistance, possessing good chemical and stress crack resistance, tensile strength and rigidity. It is available in two types, homo-polymer and co-polymer grades.

The homo-polymer grades can be used unfilled or compounded with a wide range of reinforcing fillers to improve heat resistance, rigidity and creep properties. Filler loadings can be as high as 50% or more.

Copolymers, using relatively small amounts of co-monomers, have improved low temperature toughness, optical properties and processability, but with corresponding reductions in rigidity and heat resistance. Mould shrinkage for both types is high compared to other common polymers.

A whole range of products can be processed by all normal thermoplastic processing techniques including thermoforming, fibre and monofilament production.

Polypropylene is widely used to produce fibre and monofilament for cordage, rope, carpet backing and facing yarns, upholstery and automotive fabrics, medical fabrics and filters, woven bags and strapping tapes. Automotive components such as bumpers are injection moulded, as are many appliance components, toys and packaging. Extruded sheet is used for chemical plant linings and thinner sheet is used for packaging. Copolymer is specifically used for blow moulded containers requiring good transparency for food or medical packaging. Polypropylene is often the main component in co-extruded multi layer barrier structures for many food packaging applications.

Recycling Code: 5

PP Ho - Homopolymer Polypropylene *

After Polyethylene, Polypropylene is the second most used plastic in Western Europe. It owes its position to its versatility (suitable for fibres and monofilaments) and a broad range of useful properties and processability. It has a high degree of crystallinity and heat resistance, possessing good chemical and stress crack resistance, tensile strength and rigidity. It is available in two types, homo-polymer and co-polymer grades.

The homo-polymer grades can be used unfilled or compounded with a wide range of reinforcing fillers to improve heat resistance, rigidity and creep properties. Filler loadings can be as high as 50% or more.

Copolymers, using relatively small amounts of co-monomers, have improved low temperature toughness, optical properties and processability, but with corresponding reductions in rigidity and heat resistance. Mould shrinkage for both types is high compared to other common polymers.

A whole range of products can be processed by all normal thermoplastic processing techniques including thermoforming, fibre and monofilament production.

Polypropylene is widely used to produce fibre and monofilament for cordage, rope, carpet backing and facing yarns, upholstery and automotive fabrics, medical fabrics and filters, woven bags and strapping tapes. Automotive components such as bumpers are injection moulded, as are many appliance components, toys and packaging. Extruded sheet is used for chemical plant linings and thinner sheet is used for packaging. Copolymer is specifically used for blow moulded containers requiring good transparency for food or medical packaging. Polypropylene is often the main component in co-extruded multi layer barrier structures for many food packaging applications.

Recycling Code: 5

PP Random - Random Copolymer Polypropylene *

After Polyethylene, Polypropylene is the second most used plastic in Western Europe. It owes its position to its versatility (suitable for fibres and monofilaments) and a broad range of useful properties and processability. It has a high degree of crystallinity and heat resistance, possessing good chemical and stress crack resistance, tensile strength and rigidity. It is available in two types, homo-polymer and co-polymer grades.

The homo-polymer grades can be used unfilled or compounded with a wide range of reinforcing fillers to improve heat resistance, rigidity and creep properties. Filler loadings can be as high as 50% or more.

Copolymers, using relatively small amounts of co-monomers, have improved low temperature toughness, optical properties and processability, but with corresponding reductions in rigidity and heat resistance. Mould shrinkage for both types is high compared to other common polymers.

A whole range of products can be processed by all normal thermoplastic processing techniques including thermoforming, fibre and monofilament production.

Polypropylene is widely used to produce fibre and monofilament for cordage, rope, carpet backing and facing yarns, upholstery and automotive fabrics, medical fabrics and filters, woven bags and strapping tapes. Automotive components such as bumpers are injection moulded, as are many appliance components, toys and packaging. Extruded sheet is used for chemical plant linings and thinner sheet is used for packaging. Copolymer is specifically used for blow moulded containers requiring good transparency for food or medical packaging. Polypropylene is often the main component in co-extruded multi layer barrier structures for many food packaging applications.

Recycling Code: 5

PPE - Polyphenylene Ether (see PPO)

Polyphenylene oxide is also known as PPE, or polyphenylene ether and is an amorphous, heat resistant polymer with outstanding electrical properties, resistant to both acids and bases, and with inherent flame retardancy.

Because it is so heat resistant, it is difficult to process, and for this reason it is usually alloyed with polystyrene (GPPS and HIPS) to produce a more easy processable range of materials. In this form it is sometimes referred to as "modified PPO" or often just 'PPO'. Strictly speaking, it is an alloy.

Modification with GPPS or HIPS reduces heat resistance (the glass transition drops from around 150(C to the 100(C to 135(C region), but in the latter case improves impact properties. In modified form it can be processed by all the usual techniques. The modified grades can be repeatedly steam sterilised and are easily made flame retardant with halogen free systems.

Applications range from medical and business machinery to automotive interior and exterior components.

Recycling Code: 7

PPO - Polyphenylene oxide *

Polyphenylene oxide is also known as PPE, or polyphenylene ether and is an amorphous, heat resistant polymer with outstanding electrical properties, resistant to both acids and bases, and with inherent flame retardancy.

Because it is so heat resistant, it is difficult to process, and for this reason it is usually alloyed with polystyrene (GPPS and HIPS) to produce a more easy processable range of materials. In this form it is sometimes referred to as "modified PPO" or often just 'PPO'. Strictly speaking, it is an alloy.

Modification with GPPS or HIPS reduces heat resistance (the glass transition drops from around 150(C to the 100(C to 135(C region), but in the latter case improves impact properties. In modified form it can be processed by all the usual techniques. The modified grades can be repeatedly steam sterilised and are easily made flame retardant with halogen free systems.

Applications range from medical and business machinery to automotive interior and exterior components.

Recycling Code: 7

PSU - Polysulphone

Polysulfones are characterised by an excellent range of properties, being tough, transparent, heat resistant (40 C better than polycarbonate), chemical, stain, taste and odour resistant together with a high level of mechanical strength. They are available unfilled or with glass, mineral and carbon fibre reinforcement, and can also be in conductive form.

From a processing point of view, although they are high melt viscosity materials, they are processable by all the conventional techniques. The high melt viscosity confers low orientation in mouldings.

Applications include injection moulded surgical and laboratory equipment, autoclavable tables, surgical components and implants. Extruded sheet can be thermoformed into a wide range of surgical trays where their resistance to repeated steam sterilisation is renowned. Blow moulded components, such as tissue culture bottles, are also produced, as are microwave components, kitchen, electrical, and electronic appliances.

Variants:

PES Polyethersulfone – Similar to PSU, with improved impact and chemical resistance.

PPS Polyphenylenesulfone – Similar to PES, but with an even better toughness and chemical resistance and possessing almost unlimited steam sterilisation possibilities.

Recycling Code: 7

PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride

Polysulfones are characterised by an excellent range of properties, being tough, transparent, heat resistant (40 C better than polycarbonate), chemical, stain, taste and odour resistant together with a high level of mechanical strength. They are available unfilled or with glass, mineral and carbon fibre reinforcement, and can also be in conductive form.

From a processing point of view, although they are high melt viscosity materials, they are processable by all the conventional techniques. The high melt viscosity confers low orientation in mouldings.

Applications include injection moulded surgical and laboratory equipment, autoclavable tables, surgical components and implants. Extruded sheet can be thermoformed into a wide range of surgical trays where their resistance to repeated steam sterilisation is renowned. Blow moulded components, such as tissue culture bottles, are also produced, as are microwave components, kitchen, electrical, and electronic appliances.

Variants:

PES Polyethersulfone – Similar to PSU, with improved impact and chemical resistance.

PPS Polyphenylenesulfone – Similar to PES, but with an even better toughness and chemical resistance and possessing almost unlimited steam sterilisation possibilities.

Recycling Code: 7

SAN - Styrene Acrylonitrile Copolymer *

High clarity, heat and chemical resistance, Good mechanical properties, offering high scratch resistance and easy processability on conventional machinery. The material also offers very good dimensional stability with typical applications being windows for VTR tapes, and covers for audio equipment.

Recycling Code: 7

SBC - Styrene Butadiene Styrene block Copolymer *

This range of CLEAR block co-polymers have been specially developed for the injection and extrusion markets. Complemented by inherent reprocessing and recycling capability, the products are the material of choice in a variety of transparent applications such as packaging, medical items, tools etc.

Used alone, it enables the production of high quality transparent items with excellent impact and hinge properties. In combination with other thermoplastic resins, such as GPPS, it confers a dramatic improvement in impact and tear properties to the finished articles, while maintaining a high level of transparency.

Grades are particularly suitable for uncoloured, printed and tinted applications.

Most injection grades comply with the European 89/109/EC directive and with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on food contact.

Variants: SBS BDS
Recycling Code: 6

SBS - Styrene Butadiene Styrene *

This range of CLEAR block co-polymers have been specially developed for the injection and extrusion markets. Complemented by inherent reprocessing and recycling capability, the products are the material of choice in a variety of transparent applications such as packaging, medical items, tools etc.

Used alone, it enables the production of high quality transparent items with excellent impact and hinge properties. In combination with other thermoplastic resins, such as GPPS, it confers a dramatic improvement in impact and tear properties to the finished articles, while maintaining a high level of transparency.

Grades are particularly suitable for uncoloured, printed and tinted applications.

Most grades comply with the European 89/109/EC directive and with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on food contact.

Variants: SBC BDS
Recycling Code: 6

TPE - Thermoplastic Elastomer (rubber)

TPEs (Thermoplastic elastomers) describe those materials with the processing properties of thermoplastics and the physical properties and performance characteristics of thermoset (cured, or vulcanised) rubbers.

As a group of materials, they range in hardness from 25 Shore A to 75 Shore D. Service temperatures range from -50 C to 170 C.

Advantages over the conventional thermoset rubbers include:-
Recovery of waste by granulation and re-use.
Less compounding with additives required.
Faster processing cycles – no need to vulcanise.
Better control of quality.

Disadvantages include:- Limited range of low hardness grades.
Poorer chemical and high temperature resistance.

The description covers a range of materials, in order of decreasing usage and increasing cost:

Styrenic TPE's, or Styrene block copolymers.
Olefinic TPE's, or Thermoplastic Olefins, TPO's.
Elastomer Alloys.
Thermoplastic Polyurethane TPE's or TPU's.
Thermoplastic Co-polyesters.
Thermoplastic Polyamides, or PEBA's.

All can be processed by the standard thermoplastic methods.

Applications cover almost the complete range of those of thermoset rubbers, except for pneumatic tyres for which no suitable TPE has yet been developed.

Styrenic TPE's:- are block copolymers with styrenic thermoplastic blocks combined with rubber (eg. polybutadiene - resulting polymers known as SBR's) blocks. The ratio of these blocks to each other determines the characteristics of the product (more styrenic blocks, more thermoplastic behaviour and vice versa). They combine with fillers and modifiers to create properties, tailor made to specific applications.

Grades exist in the hardness ranges 28 to 95 Shore A, with useful service temperatures ranging from -40 C to 100 C. They are non-toxic, clear and opaque (depending upon copolymer), resistant to acids and alkalis but with poor resistance to organic solvents.

Processable by all the standard techniques for thermoplastics, they are easily decorated and find wide usage in shoe soling compounds, brightly coloured consumer goods, wire and cable coverings and automotive components.

Olefinic TPE's, TPO's

TPO's are generally made by compounding semi crystalline PP (co or homo–polymer) with amorphous olefinic rubbers such as ethylene propylene diene. In this case, the ratio of thermoplastic to "rubber" phase determines the properties. Again, fillers and modifiers can readily be incorporated to tailor make products.

Useful service temperatures range from -40 C to 130 C. Although hardness values are not so low as those of the Styrenics, they have generally better heat and chemical resistance.

Surface modified grades are used widely in automotive exterior parts such as bumper fascias, fender flares, grills etc. Under- bonnet applications are being developed and thermoformed components are now used in truck manufacture. Grades can also be found in wire and cable insulation, thermal jacketing, weather-stripping, and hand grips for tools and sporting goods.

Elastomer Alloy TPE's

These are very similar to the TPO's except that in this case, the "rubber" phase is cure or vulcanised. For this reason they are sometimes known as Thermoplastic vulcanisates, or TPV's. Again they are mainly based on PP and generally modified with ethylene propylene diene, nitrile, or butyl rubbers. More recently, alloys of crosslinked (cured) ethylene interpolymers with chlorinated polyolefins, have been developed. Fillers and plasticisers are used to further tailor properties.

Alloys are available with hardness values between 54 Shore A and 50 Shore D, and the materials are noted for a comprehensive range of physical and mechanical properties. The nitrile rubber/PP TPV alloy has excellent oil and fuel resistance, and the butyl rubber/PP TPV alloy has low permeability to air and moisture.

They can be processed by all the standard thermoplastic conversion techniques, including calendaring, for a range of applications from construction (expansion joints, window and weather seals), appliances (hose covers, cable sheathing, door gaskets, electrical plug collars), automotive(vibration damping pads, convoluted boots, gaskets, wiper blades), to food contact and medical components. Thermoplastic Polyurethanes, TPU's

Like the Styrenic TPE's, TPU's are block copolymers comprised of thermoplastic and rubber phases. The ratio of these phases determines the nature of the product.

Materials range in hardness from 70 Shore A to 80 Shore D. Values below 70 Shore A are achievable but difficult to handle due to their tackiness. Service temperatures range from - 50 C to 150 C and all have excellent adhesion properties.

Thermoplastic TPU's, unlike the other TPE's, need to be pre-dried before processing by the normal thermoplastic processing techniques. As viscous materials they are also shear sensitive in the molten state.

FDA approved grades are widely used for meat and poultry wrapping. Newly developed grades, with high moisture vapour transmission values, are used in disposable medical garments and foul weather clothing. Extruded hose and pipe is used for potable water and medical devices such as catheters and cardio implants. TPU's are also found in hydraulic hose and fuel tanks. Injection moulded components are widely used in the automotive industry for fender extensions, fascias, gaskets etc. They are also used in sporting goods such as ski boots and industrial wheels.

Thermoplastic Co-polyesters

Sometimes known as ETE's (Engineering Thermoplastic Elastomers), these TPE's are random block co-polymers of thermoplastic, crystalline polyester and soft (rubbery) amorphous glycol phases. These materials have generally offer better strength and rigidity properties than conventional thermoset rubbers and their high elasticity confers exceptional dynamic flex properties. They have a useful temperature range from -40 C to 150 C, with good toughness at low temperatures and good electrical properties. ETE's also have good chemical resistance, low permeability to oils and fuels and are resistant to radiation exposure. However grades need stabilisation for satisfactory outdoor applications.

Again, as with TPU's, ETE's must be pre-dried before processing. Although being considered easy to process, care has to be exercised in order to prevent deformation on ejection of moulded components. A point to note is that moulded hinges can be made without special handling.

ETE's find wide application in replacement of many materials such as metals, leather, rubber, cast and RIM polyurethanes. Key markets are automotive and transportation products (Class A surface finish, as moulded), industrial products, consumer goods, communications and business equipment, and medical products. A recent development has seen injection moulded ETE footwear, giving the appearance and properties of leather.

Thermoplastic Polyamides, PEBA's

Comprised of polyamide and polyethylene random block sections, these materials combine the properties of nylon and LDPE.

Available in a wide range of hardness values, the material is characterised by its high service temperatures under load, good heat aging properties and excellent solvent resistance.

Pre-drying is required prior to processing which can be carried out by normal techniques and is not considered difficult.

Applications are primarily in demanding situations where the properties of the material justify its cost. Areas of use are mainly automotive applications, industrial seals, cable jacketing and sporting goods requiring extreme impact resistance.

Recycling Code: 7

General Information on Polymers