The Wonders of Plastic Series: Part Four - Properties of Specialty Synthetic Plastics

Did you know that some plastic products have unique additives such as glass fibers? Glass fibers add a lot of strength to a part. The most basic additives are pigments, which are meant to change the color of the material. However, some pigments react poorly with certain polymers and can make them more susceptible to chemical reactions. Some additives can also protect against UV or oxidation. Some plastic can withstand corrosion (like PVC) and high temperatures.

Plastics have many uses in both the food and beverage industry as well as the medical industry. Many medical devices (like syringes) are made from plastic. Did you know that there are antimicrobial additives? These additives can kill or prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and other microorganisms, thus making the product safer in their environments.

IVP Plastics designed a plastic tube using a glass filled PPS that can survive burst tests up to 300 psig and resist corrosion like a metal tube or degrade like a rubber hose. This plastic tube used to be made from metal and was converted to a new plastic part. The improved tube has no chance of rust and is designed to carry engine coolant to and from a heater core.

Part Five will talk about Metal to Plastic conversion.

IVP Plastics was founded over 60 years ago and has experience in processing more than 140 custom plastic materials, specializing in reinforced and high-temperature materials.