Polypropylene is a thermoplastic resin that is a product of the polymerization of propylene and ethylene gases. Though it may be created in a variety of forms, only isostatic polypropylene, which was discovered in 1954, is widely utilized for commercial purposes.

Due to its many favorable characteristics and production improvements, polypropylene availability and use has increased significantly over the last few decades, a trend that is likely to continue in the upcoming years. Strong, colorfast, quick drying, stain resistant, and thermally bondable, as well as durable against chemicals, mildew, and various weather conditions, polypropylene is, indeed, well suited for a wide range of applications. Furthermore, the substance has a very low specific gravity that enables it to float when it is in fiber form. Such an array of desirable qualities make polypropylene fiber a popular component in items such as diapers, sportswear, ropes, cordage, upholstery, carpeting, and interior fabrics for automobiles. As a plastic, the substance is also molded into bottles, food containers, toys, and patio furniture.

Though highly desirable for many purposes, certain drawbacks to polypropylene use have limited its exploitation in some areas, such as the traditional textile industry. The fibers poor dyeability and texturizability, for instance, have played a significant role in the notable rarity of polypropylene in most clothing and apparel items. Other negative facets of the material are its low melting point, flammability, weak thermal stability, and poor adhesion to glues and latex. Though many of these problematic aspects may be significantly improved with the addition of other materials or by changing processing conditions, doing so is often a cost prohibitive action.

Questions or comments? Send us an email.

© 1998-2022 by Michael W. Davidson and The Florida State University. All Rights Reserved. No images, graphics, scripts, or applets may be reproduced or used in any manner without permission from the copyright holders. Use of this website means you agree to all of the Legal Terms and Conditions set forth by the owners.

This website is maintained by our
Graphics & Web Programming Team
in collaboration with Optical Microscopy at the
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Last modification: Friday, Nov 13, 2015 at 02:19 PM

Access Count Since November 20, 2003: 16016

For more information on microscope manufacturers,
use the buttons below to navigate to their websites: