CHEMICAL COMPOSITION/FORMULA:
(C3H6)n
MATERIAL DESCRIPTION:
Polypropylene is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic. It is a linear hydrocarbon polymer, which serves both as fiber and plastic. It is used in packaging, textiles, thermal underwear, carpets, laboratory equipments, loudspeakers etc. PP has an intermediate level of crystallinity between low density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene(HDPE) and has a low level of electrical conductivity. Polypropylne is close to polyethylne but has higher working temperatures and tensile strength than polyethylene. It also has a high melting point compared to other plastics.
EXTRACTION PROCESS:
Propylene is obtained, along with ethylene, by cracking naphtha (crude oil light distillate). It is separated by low temperature fractional distillation. After the propylene monomer is subjected to heat and pressure, PP is manufactured from propylene gas in the presence of a catalyst. Polymerisation is achieved at relatively low temperature and pressure and the product yielded is translucent, but readily coloured.
BASIC PROPERTIES:
Compressive Strength (N/m2) 40000000
Tensile Strength (N/m2) 950000 – 1300000
Stiffness (N/m2) 1.5 – 2.0 x 109
Density (kg/m3) 905
Carbon Footprint (average,KGCO2E/KG) 3,456 ( Less CO2 equivalents by weight than PET,PS and PVC.)
Recyclable Yes (Polypropylene recyling rates are increasing by year.)
Laser Yes
Small Laser Yes
Milling
3D Printing No
ADVANTAGE IN THE CONTEXT OF DIGITAL FABRICATION:
Polypropylene is a material which is shapeable. It is easy to give a form. PP is normally though and flexible. It can be used also by twisting, bending or folding. It has good resistance to fatigue. It is lightweight, and does not absorb the water. On the other hand, it is economical.
MATERIAL SUPLIERS:
Complas http://www.complasbcn.com/
Servei Estacio http://www.serveiestacio.com/
Lork Industria http://www.lorkindustrias.com/
Sunclear http://www.sunclear.es/
PRICE :
3.86 eu/m2 (Complas)
5.20 eu/m2 (Servei Estacio)
REFERENCES:
Generative Installation, Diaphanous
Mexico, 2011
Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey
Advanced Prototypes / Department of Industrial Design
By Gabriel Esquivel & David Hernandez
http://archinect.com/people/project/15906375/diaphanus/15909988
____________________________________________________________
Exhibition Minimal Complexity MC/2*, Complex Surfaces
London,2012
International Architecture & Design Showcase
Office of Surface Architects
By Vlad Tenu
http://www.arch2o.com/mc2-london-2012-vlad-tenu-surface/