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/