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To assess solvent resistance, first consider solvents spread out on a polarity scale. Non-polar solvents are at one end, such as paraffin, petrol and diesel. At the other ‘highly polar’ end we find alcohols and water. In between are moderately polar solvents such as acetone, esters and chlorinated solvents.
In 1839, by inserting sulphur atoms as bridges between polymer chains, Charles Goodyear transformed Natural Rubber from an interesting curiosity into a superb engineering material that has had a huge impact on society.
One of the exciting attributes of polymers is that the properties of any polymer can be modified by tinkering with the basic molecular structure or incorporating a range of additives. However, you have to be aware that altering one property may have a knock-on effect on other properties.
In some applications heat resistance can mean the material’s ability to carry out its intended function at elevated temperatures for short periods.
Many assume that polytetrafluoroethylene is a thermoset because it seems unaffected by heat. Continue reading
Polyamides are macromolecules with repeating units linked by amide bonds.
Environmental stress cracking (ESC) is the development of cracks and eventual catastrophic failure due to a combination of mechanical stress (from external loading or from moulding strain) and exposure to an ‘aggressive’ chemical (a ‘near solvent’ for the thermoplastic material).
Environmental stress cracking (ESC) is not the result of the continual battle that the plastics industry has in convincing environmentalists and politicians that plastics can be the solution to environmental problems and not the cause.
ABS is one of the original engineering thermoplastics. A classic all-rounder with a good blend of performance and aesthetic properties.
Today the term is conveniently applied to certain families of thermoplastics which have a higher performance than the group of thermoplastics labelled ‘Commodity Thermoplastics’.
Last week’s Feast of Saint Valentine is past. The celebration of romance may have turned our minds towards relationships and light-hearted fun. In the commercial arena, however, the political climate surrounding our industry is toxic. Why then should anyone love plastic?
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