What is PP Plastic?

PP plastic, or polypropylene, has the chemical formula (C3H6)n. It’s a polymer with high mechanical strength, produced from the monomer propene (or propylene). Some notable features of PP plastic include:

• Light weight, transparent white, colorless, odorless, and tasteless.
• High heat resistance, able to withstand temperatures from 130-170°C (melting point: 170-200°C).
• Non-toxic, readily available, and therefore inexpensive, leading to widespread use.

PP plastic, or polypropylene, has the chemical formula (C3H6)n

How to Identify PP Plastic

• High and clear printability due to its transparency and high surface gloss.
• Less flexible than PE plastic; it’s harder and less easily stretched.
• Small punctures or cuts easily tear.
• Resistant to oils, water vapor, and other gases.
• Withstands temperatures above 100°C; the sealing temperature for PP packaging is around 140°C.

Types of PP Plastic

Three types of PP plastic are commonly used:

Recycled PP Plastic

Recycled PP plastic is made from used plastic products. Improved recycling processes have made it widely used and inexpensive (approximately $0.27-$0.54/lb). It’s considered environmentally friendly and safe for users.

Recycled PP plastic is made from used plastic products.

Virgin PP Plastic

Virgin PP plastic is produced from petroleum, without additives or impurities. Its purity (up to 99%) makes it suitable for some water filter applications.

Virgin PP plastic is naturally white, flexible, and durable. Manufacturers often add colorants to create diverse product designs.

Inochi Notoro HIN.THDN.0018 18-liter plastic container

Regenerated PP Plastic

Regenerated PP plastic, similar to recycled PP, is made from used plastic products such as car battery casings, traffic lights, battery cables, and ice makers. It’s typically produced in pellet form. While less expensive, it maintains acceptable quality.

Regenerated PP plastic is made from used plastic products.

Uses of PP Plastic

Cosmetic Travel Bottles

PP plastic is popular for cosmetic travel bottles due to its convenience, space-saving nature, and light weight. It’s non-toxic and safe for storing cosmetics.

Household Items and Food Packaging

PP plastic household items and food packaging help prevent oxidation and preserve food. Its high heat resistance allows for easy reheating.

Common PP plastic household items include food containers, baby food trays, trays, cups, and water bottles.

Children’s Products and Toys

Baby bottles, sippy cups, baby bathtubs, baby spoons, and toys made from PP plastic are widely available. Always carefully check product information, materials, and brand reputation before purchasing.

Construction and Interior Design

In construction, PP plastic sheeting is used for its heat resistance and to reduce heat transfer. It’s also used to make furniture such as tables, chairs, cabinets, faux-wood flooring, shelves, and storage bins.

Advantages and Disadvantages of PP Plastic

Advantages

• High Mechanical Strength: Its fibrous structure provides elasticity, resistance to deformation, and good strength.
• High Heat Resistance: Withstands temperatures from 130-170°C (melting point: 170-200°C).
• Water and Oxidation Resistance: Multi-layered films increase resistance to gases, water vapor, oils, and other gases.
• High Gloss: Enhances product aesthetics.
• Safe and Versatile: Its non-toxicity and safety make it widely used in various applications.

Disadvantages

• Rapid Degradation in Sunlight: Polypropylene is susceptible to UV degradation, causing cracking and damage with prolonged sun exposure.
• Brittleness at Low Temperatures: Its high thermal expansion coefficient leads to shrinkage at low temperatures, making it prone to breakage in cold environments.

Is PP Plastic Safe for Babies?

PP plastic is deemed safe for babies by health authorities because it’s odorless, contains no harmful substances, and is non-irritating to the skin. However, to ensure complete safety, purchase PP plastic products from reputable brands and stores.

PP plastic can withstand temperatures up to 170°C without affecting baby’s health. Its use in microwave-safe plastics and its safe recyclability make it a suitable material for baby products.

Inochi Noroto HIN.TTBE.NONH Baby Bathtub

PP plastic is widely used in products for babies and mothers. We hope this information helps you choose the safest and best products for your baby. Visit the AVAKids website or call our hotline at 1900.866.874 to find high-quality baby products!