Polypropylene (PP) is the most commonly used thermoplastic in the world. The uses of Polypropylene range from plastic packaging, plastic parts for machinery and equipment, and even fibers and textiles. Polypropylene was first polymerized in 1951 and today is used widely in a range of domestic and industrial applications. Currently, there is an incredible demand for polypropylene, with an estimate of around 45 metric tons with this figure rising exponentially.

Uses for polypropylene

Plastic packaging is one of the main and most important uses of polypropylene. Polypropylene has a slippery, tactile surface, making it ideal for:

• Plastic furniture
• Low friction applications, such as gears in machinery and vehicles.
• It is highly resistant to chemical corrosion, making it an excellent choice for packaging for
• Cleaning products
• Bleaches
• First-aid products

Polypropylene offers great fatigue resistance and has incredible elasticity making it tough and durable. Polypropylene also has high insulation properties making it a safe option for use in plastic casing in electrical goods and cables. Polypropylene in its fiber form has a wide array of uses including ropes, twine, tape, carpets, upholstery, clothing, and camping equipment. And due to polypropylene's waterproof properties, it is highly effective and useful for the marine sector. Polypropylene is used in the automotive sector for battery casings, trays and drink holders, bumpers, interior details, instrumental panels, and door trims.

The waterproof properties of polypropylene along with its flexible strength, and resistance to mold, bacteria, and chemical corrosion,make it highly useful for the medical sector. Some medical applications include:

• Syringes
• Medical vials
• Petri dishes
• Pill containers
• Specimen bottles