http://polypropyleneworld.

com/introduction_to_polypropylene

PP consists of two categories: homopolymers and copolymers depending upon

its chemical composition. Homopolymers are produced with propylene as the
only monomer, while copolymers are made from more than one monomer
propylene. The most common comonomer is ethylene. Homopolymers can be
further classified as isotactic PP, syndiotactic PP, and atactic PP based upon its
tacticity. Tacticy is referred to steric arrangement of methyl group on PP
molecular chains. If all methyl groups align to the same direction, then PP is
called isotactic PP; if methyl groups have alternating configuration with respect to
main chains, it is called syndiotactic PP. Finally if methyl group randomly
arranged, then it is called an atactic PP. Isotactic PP is the mostly commonly
used PP in the market, and so PP homopolymer in general refers to isotactic PP
homopolymer. To improve clarity or impact of PP homopolymer, ethylene is
introduced into the PP chain, thus creating PP copolymers. When ethylene
content is lower (<5% in weight), PP is called random copolymers, otherwise, it is
called heterogenous copolymers (HECOs) or block copolymers. However, block
copolymers here is an misomer since they are not exactly block copolymers like
styrenic block copolymers. Rather, this type of block copolymers is composed of
a homopolymer as a matrix and a random EP copolymer. Block copolymers
typically are manufactured with two or more reactors with the first producing a PP
homoplymer, and the second one producing ethylene propylene copoylmers (or
so called rubber component) with homopolymer present. Further, within block
copolymers, if the rubber content is more than 30%, block copolymer is then
called reactor TPOs (thermoplastic olefins).

Each type of PP resins has its own unique performance. Homopolymers typically
have higher modulus and heat deflection temperatures; random copolymers
provide better clarity, while block copolymers impart PP a good balance of
stiffness and impact properties. Reactor TPOs have excellent impact
performance even at freezing points with good stiffness. Depending on
molecular weight or MFR and additive contents, there are many grades of PP in
the current market, and its industry is pushing technology boundary to bring
markets PP grades of even better performance with cost efficiency.
 Polypropylene (PP), also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic polymer
used in a wide variety of applications including packaging, textiles (e.g. ropes, thermal
underwear and carpets), stationery, plastic parts and reusable containers of various types,
laboratory equipment, loudspeakers, automotive components, and polymer banknotes. An
addition polymer made from the monomer propylene, it is rugged and unusually resistant
to many chemical solvents, bases and acids.

Manufacturing
Melt processing of polypropylene can be achieved via extrusion and molding. Common
extrusion methods include production of melt-blown and spun-bond fibers to form long
rolls for future conversion into a wide range of useful products, such as face masks,
filters, nappies (diapers) and wipes.

The most common shaping technique is injection molding, which is used for parts such as
cups, cutlery, vials, caps, containers, housewares, and automotive parts such as batteries.
The related techniques of blow molding and injection-stretch blow molding are also used,
which involve both extrusion and molding.

The large number of end-use applications for polypropylene are often possible because of
the ability to tailor grades with specific molecular properties and additives during its
manufacture. For example, antistatic additives can be added to help polypropylene
surfaces resist dust and dirt. Many physical finishing techniques can also be used on
polypropylene, such as machining. Surface treatments can be applied to polypropylene
parts in order to promote adhesion of printing ink and paints.
http://sites.google.com/site/ppsolutions2/Home/polypropylene-
information/test-page-2/polypropylene-structure

Polypropylene
Polypropylene comes from propylene polymers. Its chemical structure is shown
in picture 1.2. Its special characteristics are as follows:

Molecular weight
During polymerization there are four main factors that determine the
characteristics of a polymer. These include:

• Chemical Composition
• Molecular Weight and Distribution
• Chain Structure(Topology)
• Morphology