Plastic alloys, also known as polymer blends, are advanced materials created by combining two or more polymers to achieve a superior set of properties not found in a single base resin. This modification technique is widely used to meet the increasingly specific demands of various industries. Key alloy systems include:
PC/ABS Alloy: This is one of the most mature and successful alloys. It marries the high heat resistance and strength of Polycarbonate (PC) with the superior processability of ABS. Halogen-free flame retardant grades are extensively used in office equipment like printers, fax machines, and laptops. Related blends like PMMA/ABS are used for high-gloss, scratch-resistant TV frames and digital product casings, while PC/ASA offers better weather resistance for outdoor applications.
PPO Alloy: While Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO) has excellent hydrolysis resistance, its poor flow limits its use. Alloying it with PA or PBT improves fluidity, toughness, and rigidity while reducing the warpage associated with crystalline materials. This expands its application to large automotive and motorcycle components.
Polyester Alloy: This category includes blends like PC/PBT, PC/PET, and PBT/PET. These alloys balance the flow and mechanical properties of the constituent materials, offering good processing and chemical resistance. PC/PBT and PC/PET are known for their solvent resistance, while PBT/ASA provides excellent weatherability and is used in automotive grilles and solar light covers.
PPS Alloy: Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) is a high-performance material with excellent rigidity and thermal stability but inherent brittleness. Alloying it with PA or LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) significantly improves its toughness and crystallization behavior, enhancing its overall performance for use in complex, rigid components under high stress.