Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer made from the polymerization of propylene monomers. It is one of the most widely used plastics due to its low cost, lightweight, and excellent chemical resistance.
About Polypropylene
JEDA Polymers produces many standard formulations of polypropylene with prime or recycled feedstocks. JEDA Polymers adds value to these commodity resins by increasing stiffness and tensile properties with the addition of fillers. For added strength these products are produced with coupling agents to improve the adhesion of the filler to the polymer. For lightweight applications that require higher mechanical properties, carbon fiber is used in place of the fiberglass. In addition, these products can be further enhanced by adding UV additives, anti-stat additives, and improving surface hardness to improve scratch resistance.
Types of Polypropylene
Two general types of polypropylene resins exists which are categorized as homopolymer polypropylene (PPH) and copolymer polypropylene (PPC). Homopolymer consists of a single type of propylene monomer and is known for key properties like high strength and stiffness, excellent chemical resistance, high temperature resistance but poor low-temperature toughness and impact resistance. It is typically used in packaging, textiles and medical products.
Copolymer consists of two or more monomers, typically propylene plus a co-monomer like ethylene and can be further categorized by its ethylene unit structure: Random or Block.
Random copolymer (PP-RC) is known for high optical clarity and transparency, flexibility and lower melting point and typically used in food container packaging, and medical applications. Block copolymer (PP-Impact) is known for significantly higher impact strength and resistance to stress cracking, rigidity, and heat resistance and typically used in durable packaging, automotive and industrial applications.
Key Properties of Polypropylene (PP)
Lightweight
Low density (~0.90 g/cm³), making it ideal for weight-sensitive applications.
High chemical resistance
Resistant to acids, bases, and solvents.
Good impact resistance
Especially in copolymer forms.
Moisture resistance
Does not absorb water, making it suitable for humid environments.
Good fatigue resistance
Can be flexed repeatedly without breaking (used in living hinges).
High melting point (~130-170°C)
Allows use in applications requiring moderate heat resistance.
Good electrical insulation
Used in electrical components.
Recyclability
Identified as recycling code #5, making it environmentally favorable.
Available JEDA Options
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Common Applications of Polypropylene
Packaging
Food containers, bottle caps, plastic bags
Automotive Parts
Bumpers, dashboards, battery casings
Medical Products
Syringes, lab equipment, surgical trays
Textiles
Woven and non-woven fabrics, carpets, ropes
Household Goods
Storage bins, furniture, appliances
Performance Overview
Polypropylene is valued for its versatility, durability, and affordability, making it a dominant material in many industries. However, it has poor UV resistance (can degrade in sunlight without stabilizers) and is not as strong or heat-resistant as some other engineering plastics.
Color Options
JEDA Polymers excels in small batch pre-coloring. Utilizing our proprietary color production process, JEDA Polymers offers cost-effective custom color solutions with rapid lead times.
Whether you need standard or custom polypropylene resins in natural, black, or a specific color, and affordability is key, JEDA Polymers can help.
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We pride ourselves on offering a variety of products which also includes ready-to-ship standard products in stock and ready for immediate shipment. Reach out to learn more.
