Polypropylene (PP) Uses and Market Data

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Polypropylene's (PP) intrinsic properties of high stiffness, good tensile strength and inertness toward
acids, alkalis and solvents, plus its traditional cost advantage over other thermoplastic polymers,
has secured its position in a wide range of consumer and industrial products, manufactured by
several high-volume forming methods. In addition, its low density and cost advantage over other
thermoplastic polymers make it suitable for applications that are weight and cost conscious.

There are three forms of PP that can be produced – isotactic, syndiotactic and atactic – but isotatic
PP is the main form manufactured. Small amounts of other monomers (most usually ethylene) can
be added to make either random or block PP copolymers.

Injection moulding applications are the largest outlet for PP. Uses here include packaging, parts for
electronic and electrical appliances, caps and closures, toys, luggage and a variety of household
goods and miscellaneous products.

The second largest outlet for PP is the fibres sector. A growth market has been carpet face yarn for
carpet backing while its combined strength and resistance has led to the replacement of sisal and
jute in ropes, twine and string. It can also be used in textiles such as thermal underwear and plays
an important part in the non-woven market. Globally, fibre markets are seeing steady growth
although there is a migration away from North America and western Europe to northeast Asia.

Both the film and sheet markets have seen good growth over recent years, particularly sheet for
thermoforming applications. Film grade PP offers excellent optical clarity and low moisture vapour
transmission with uses in the packaging of sweets, snack foods and cigarettes, capacitors and other
electronic films, photo and graphic arts applications, and pressure sensitive tape backing and labels.
PP sheet is used in thermoformed food containers, which can be blow or injection moulded.

The blow moulding market continues to grow from a very small base. PP has also seen some growth
as an extrusion coating in a market dominated by low density polyethylene (LDPE). Atactic
polypropylene finds outlets in paper laminating, sealants and adhesives. There is also some growth
in extrusion of pipe and conduit, wire and cable.

PP and its alloys have become the plastic of choice in the automobile market where it can provide
substantial weight savings. It is used in internal and external body panels and its heat resistance
makes it suitable for use for components in the engine compartment. PP's low density, combined
with good mechanical properties (especially when filled or compounded) and good injection
moulding characteristics, make it very suitable for the large-volume, weight-conscious automotive
market. Over a third of plastics in automobiles are now PP and PP alloys.