ABS vs Polypropylene: Which One is Better?
Plastic polymers are highly popular and are used in versatile applications. There are many types of these thermoplastics, among which you must have heard about ABS and polypropylene. The two of these have their own characteristics and uses.
The guide below is meant for you if you are looking forward to learning about ABS vs Polypropylene. So, let's read.
What is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)?
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, also known as ABS. It is a type of thermoplastic that has a glossy and adhesive structure.
It is also convertible from solid to liquid and vice versa when required. It is very commonly used in many processes for manufacturing components, especially moulage par injection.
Benefits of ABS
ABS offers various benefits, and some of these are as follows:
- It is a cost-effective plastic.
- ABS doesn't get affected by humidity or temperature.
- It has dielectric properties and hence offers high electric insulation.
- ABS resists fluids and is not affected by alkali alcohols, water, or most of the acids.
- It has high tensile strength and even offers excellent resistance to impact.
- It is opted for its aesthetic appearance as it is available in ivory and opaque appearance.
Applications de l'ABS
ABS is used in many applications, and some of these are as follows:
- Automobile components
- Appareils électroménagers
- Household products
- Boîtiers
- Électronique
- Applications aérospatiales
- Jouets
- Pharmaceuticals
- Lightings
What is Polypropylene (PP)?
Polypropylène is used because it is very easy to extract. It offers high chemical resistance and is suitable for manufacturing components that store highly corrosive materials.
Benefits of Polypropylene (PP)
Some of the benefits of polypropylene are given below:
- It was very cheap, even cheaper than ABS.
- It offers high toughness and durability.
- It is highly flexible and even has low weight.
- It is capable of sustaining variable temperatures due to its high melting point.
- They resist absorbing moisture.
- It offers excellent chemical resistance and is also resistant to electricity.
Applications of Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is used in many applications, and some of these are given below:
- Composants électroniques
- Closures and caps
- Fans
- Appareils électroménagers
- Automobile components
- Food trays
- Food containers
- Articles ménagers
- Sports goods
- Jouets
ABS vs Polypropylene Comprehensive Comparison
A comprehensive comparison between ABS and polypropylene is given below:
Chemical Composition
ABS is made out of three polymers, namely butadiene, acrylonitrile, and styrene, and offers excellent resistance against chemicals and has high impact resistance. It is also composed of a very smooth and glossy surface.
Polypropylene is made out of polymerization of propylene monomers and is a semi-crystalline plastic. It offers versatility and is also light in weight.
Propriétés mécaniques
ABS offers high toughness and impact resistance; it can maintain its strength over a wider range of temperatures and, hence, is suitable for structural applications.
Polypropylene, on the other hand, has a low density and is flexible compared to ABS. It offers high fatigue resistance and can be opted for applications that need flexibility.
Résistance à la température
ABS has the ability to withstand a maximum of 80 degrees Celsius for a longer span of time, and if the temperature rises, it may start to deform.
At the same time, polypropylene has better temperature resistance and starts to deform when the temperature increases more than 171 degrees Celsius.
Résistance chimique
The chemical resistance of ABS is moderate, and if subjected to strong solvents, bases, and acids, it can get damaged. It is suitable for applications that are exposed to oil and mild chemicals but not for very harsh environments.
Polypropylene, on the other hand, has high chemical resistance and can easily withstand exposure to alkalis and acids.
Appearance and Surface Finish
ABS has a very glossy and smooth surface that can easily be painted or plated to give it an excellent appearance. It is also available in multiple colors. Polypropylene, on the other hand, offers a matte surface and is not very aesthetically appealing.
ABS vs PP: Properties and Impact Resistance
| Propriétés | ABS | Polypropylène |
| Densité | 0.9 - 1.53 g/cm3 | 0.90 - 0.94 g/cm3 |
| Specific Heat | 1.04 | 0.91 |
| Module d'élasticité | 249,000 PSI | - |
| Water Absorption Rate | 0.30% | Very slight |
| Résistance à la chaleur | Bon | Excellent |
| Résistance à la traction | 4100 PSI | 4800 PSI |
| Résistance aux chocs | Has high impact resistance | Has moderate impact resistance |
| Modulus of Elasticity (Flexural) in PSI | 304,000 | 225,000 |
| Water Resistance | Offers good resistance | Offers excellent resistance |
Conclusion
Understanding the comparison between ABS and polypropylene is very important so that the right selection can be made. After reading a detailed comparison above, you will be able to decide what suits your application.
Contact us at DEK, and we can easily manufacture components using ABS and PP. We offer high-quality components suitable for your requirements.
FAQ
What are the material types of ABS and polypropylene?
ABS is composed of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene, and PP is made using polymers of propylene.
Are ABS and polypropylene easy to paint or electroplate？
ABS is easy to paint and electroplate as it offers excellent adhesion. However, polypropylene is difficult to electroplate and paint as it doesn't have a suitable adhesion.
What are the prices of ABS and polypropylene?
The prices of ABS and polypropylene vary based on the custom requirements of the components; however, polypropylene is cheaper than ABS.
What are the processing temperatures of ABS and polypropylene?
The processing temperature of ABS is around 220 to 260 degrees Celsius, whereas polypropylene has a processing temperature of 180 to 240 degrees Celsius.
