PP and EPP are two different materials that are made from the same base polymer, polypropylene. The key difference between the two is in their manufacturing processes and resulting properties.
PP, or polypropylene, is a thermoplastic material that is commonly used in a wide range of applications. It is produced through a process called extrusion, which involves melting and shaping the polymer into various forms. PP has a relatively high density and stiffness, and is known for its toughness, chemical resistance, and excellent moldability.
EPP, or expanded polypropylene, is a foam material that is also made from polypropylene resin. However, EPP is produced using a different manufacturing process called steam molding, which involves heating and expanding the material into a foam with a cellular structure. This cellular structure gives EPP its unique properties, including low density, excellent impact resistance, thermal insulation, and cushioning properties. EPP is also recyclable and can be reused in other products or converted into energy.
In summary, PP is a dense and rigid material that is often used in applications where strength, toughness, and moldability are important, while EPP is a lightweight and flexible foam material that is ideal for use in applications where cushioning, thermal insulation, and impact resistance are required.
| Property | PP | EPP |
| Density | High | Low |
| Flexibility | Rigid | Flexible |
| Impact resistance | Low | High |
| Thermal conductivity | High | Low |
| Cushioning | Poor | Excellent |
| Chemical resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Moldability | Excellent | Limited |
| Recyclability | Recyclable, but not easy to recycle into high-quality products | Recyclable and can be reused in other products or converted into energy |
In summary, PP is a denser and more rigid material than EPP, with lower impact resistance, higher thermal conductivity, poor cushioning, and excellent chemical resistance. PP is highly moldable and can be used in a wide range of applications due to its excellent moldability. EPP, on the other hand, is a lightweight, flexible, and highly impact-resistant foam material with excellent cushioning properties, low thermal conductivity, and excellent chemical resistance. EPP is recyclable and can be reused in other products or converted into energy.
