Materials > Plastic

Polypropylene

Common thermoplastic, known for its chemical resistance
Also known as
Polypropylene

What is Polypropylene?

Polypropylene is an opaque, semi-crystalline plastic. It's commonly used plastic utensils and Tupperware. In packaging, it's often used for labels, stickers, and tape.

It's a thermoplastic which means it melts when heated to a certain temperature. This makes it a viable option for injection molding. On its own, it has very low density. To improve its strength, it can be combined with other plastics (or even fiberglass) to improve its strength and durability.

Why choose it?

  • Can have high clarity

  • Lightweight

  • High resistance to chemicals

  • High resistance to moisture

  • High melting point

  • High resistance to cracking

  • Resistant to leaching

Why not choose it?

  • Resin code #5, very low likelihood of recyclability

  • Not resistant to UV light, will degrade over time

  • Flammable

  • Derived from fossil fuels