Polyester is noted for its higher melting point and resistance to a majority of chemicals. It retains color better, promising a more resilient fabric that resists UV rays. Strong and lightweight, polyester is unlikely to stretch, shrink, wrinkle, or fall victim to abrasions.
Polycarbonate. When comparing polypropylene vs. polycarbonate bags such as the Platinum® Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner, it's important to remember that while polypropylene is lighter, polycarbonate is the sturdier choice. A polycarbonate suitcase may cost more but will offer more rigid protection.
Both polypropylene and polycarbonate are versatile thermoplastics, but their properties, applications, and manufacturing processes are very different. Polypropylene is cheaper and more flexible but has lower impact resistance compared to polycarbonate which is stronger, more transparent, and more heat resistant.
Polypropylene, on the other hand, is often suitable for products that do not require longevity or wear resistance, commonly found in consumer goods and packaging. While polypropylene may be appropriate for short term applications, polyurethane excels in demanding environments where durability is crucial.
Both materials offer great strength and rigidity, but knowing each material's unique characteristics can help you choose between polyethylene or polypropylene plastic. At Renegade Plastics, we'd recommend polypropylene – not only is it strong and durable, but it's recyclable and better for the environment.
Polypropylene disadvantages
Other recycling or re-conditioning methods must be considered, at a significantly higher cost. This low melting point also means that polypropylene is highly flammable and limited in its ability to withstand higher temperatures and it is also susceptible to UV degradation and oxidation.
In terms of migration, both PE and PP are considered to be low-risk materials as they have low levels of migration into food products. However, PP has a slightly lower level of migration compared to PE due to its higher density and lower porosity.
Shellac – Shellac is a varnish made from the resin of the lac bug. It is a softer finish that is often recommended for lighter-colored woods. It is also better for areas with high moisture and frequent wear, as it dries much faster than polyurethane.
Even though polyurethane is waterproof and weatherproof, if it's left in an area with high humidity levels or temperatures of more than 122° Fahrenheit (50° Celsius), the material will degrade. It should be kept away from these conditions to ensure that it lasts for as long as possible.
The exact shelf life of polypropylene cannot be defined but for the interest of the buyer and or processors, Mangpol shelf-life is 12 months from the date of manufacturing if it is stored in a dust free storage area where the temperature is not more than 40deg.
Other than aluminum luggage, polycarbonate is the most durable luggage material. Although it's one of the lighter industrial metals, aluminum luggage tends to be heavier than polycarbonate luggage.
It resists most strong mineral acids and bases, but, like the other polyolefins, it is subject to attack by oxidizing agents. HMC PP resins are appreciably affected by chlorosulfonic acid and oleum at room temperature, 98% sulfuric acid, 30% hydrochloric acid, and 30% hydrogen peroxide at 100°C (212°F).
There are three general types of polypropylene: homopolymer, random copolymer, and block copolymer. The comonomer is typically used with ethylene. Ethylene-propylene rubber or EPDM added to polypropylene homopolymer increases its low temperature impact strength.
PAI – Polyamideimide (PAI) boasts the highest tensile strength of any plastic at 21,000 psi. This high performance plastic has the highest strength of any unreinforced thermoplastic, good wear and radiation resistance, inherently low flammability and smoke emission, and high thermal stability.
Polypropylene plastic is waterproof due to its tightly woven particles that allow nothing to pass through them! Any exposure to water will end in the water sliding off the top of the surface of this material. The plastic is thermoplastic, it molds and changes when heat is directly applied.
One of the major drawbacks of polypropylene is its limited heat resistance compared to other thermoplastics. Polypropylene has a melting point of about 320°F (160°C), making it unsuitable for high temperature applications.
Polypropylene fabric is a textile made from PP, which is a thermoplastic polymer commonly used in food packaging, plastic furniture, films, automotive parts, and medical devices. This plastic is a linear hydrocarbon polymer, and it is one of the most popular plastics due to its low cost and easy manufacturability.
PP is a good choice for applications where lightweight, durability, and flexibility are important. PU is a good choice for applications where strength, resilience, and chemical resistance are important.
Made primarily from plant-based linseed oil and waxes, SheenPlus is a far more environmentally friendly and healthy alternative to Polyurethane, aligning with modern eco-conscious standards.
PU finish offers excellent resistance to scratches, chemicals, and UV rays, and is a preferred choice for high-traffic areas and furniture that is exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, melamine is known for its moisture resistance, making it suitable for areas prone to spills and humidity.
In summary, HDPE tends to have higher tensile strength, impact resistance, and flexural strength compared to PP. HDPE is often chosen for applications requiring these properties, such as pipes, containers, and structural components.
Polypropylene is considered a non-toxic plastic and does not contain Bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which are known to pose health risks. This makes it a preferred choice for food applications, as it does not introduce harmful chemicals into the food.
Nylon is also a low-friction plastic, perfect for many parts that endure resistance like wheels, seals, gaskets, and rollers. Nylon, as noted by its higher melt viscosity, is more heat-resistant than polypropylene.