Polypropylene (PP) filaments for 3D printers

Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most commonly used plastics in the world and is also one of the most demanding materials for 3D printing. However, once mastered, this material can be used in numerous ways.

What are polypropylene (PP) filaments.

Polypropylene, abbreviated PP, is one of the most widely used polymers in industry, being a common household plastic prized for its unique set of properties. Polypropylene is a versatile material and has excellent properties: incredible durability, high flexibility and chemical resistance, even being microwave safe.

What are the properties of polypropylene (PP) filaments.

Among the properties of polypropylene filaments we remember resistance to wear, high resistance to chemical agents and excellent adhesion.

What are the advantages of polypropylene filaments?

• • Semiflexible;

• • Heat resistance;

• • Smooth finish;

• • Food safe;

• • Available in a variety of colors;

What are the disadvantages of PP filaments

• • Costly;

• • Prone to deformation;

• • It is not biodegradable;

In which sectors do we recommend the use of 3D polypropylene filaments?

Polypropylene is a versatile material and this makes it suitable for numerous industrial applications. We commonly see the material used for food and beverage containers, chemical product packaging, medical syringe components, and even automobile dashboards.

In the food sector?

Polypropylene is used for many types of food packaging and containers for many reasons: it helps protect food from spoilage, ensures food safety and prolongs the freshness of food. Polypropylene has also been approved by the FDA for the packaging industry and does not pose a health hazard to consumers.

In the textile industry

Polypropylene has been used in the textile industry since the 1950s, and the benefits of polypropylene fabric include resistance to most acids and alkalis or moisture-wicking properties, making polypropylene a popular material for cold weather or even sportswear.

In medicine

Polypropylene is one of the dominant polymers in the medical sector: it has a number of properties that make it suitable for the production of care and health products, one of which is the ability to store substances without contaminating them. It is widely used for syringes, bags, hospital disposables, test tubes, beakers and pipettes, etc.

In the auto industry

Polypropylene is the most widespread plastic also in the automotive sector, having properties such as durability and resistance to numerous chemical solvents. In the automotive industry, PPs are commonly used for bumpers, chemical tanks, cable insulation and gas cylinders, or even for a variety of vehicle applications such as door panels, consoles, seat backs, trunk liners and more.

Which 3D printers are PP filaments compatible with?

What technologies do you need when using PP filaments?

Differences between PP polypropylene filaments and other types of 3D filaments?

There are many types of filaments, each with different properties and requiring different melting temperatures: they can be chosen both based on the 3D printer on which they will be used and on what you want to obtain from the print.

PP versus PLA 3D filaments

Polylactic acid, commonly known as PLA, is one of the most popular materials used in desktop 3D printing. PLA is a material obtained from organic materials, such as corn, being obviously biodegradable. Among the advantages of this material we find, in addition to being the most ecological option, also the ease of printing and the cost-effectiveness. Compared to polypropylene, PLA has lower resistance to impacts and heat and can deform or discolor even after exposure to the sun.

PP versus SO 3D filaments

ASA is a thermoplastic material capable of successfully resisting UV rays, which appeared as an alternative to ABS. The strengths of this type of plastic are its waterproofness, as it can be exposed for long periods in the rain or in the open air, resistance to UV rays and an excellent surface finish. ASA has higher impact resistance and hardness than polypropylene.

PP versus PET 3D filaments

PET filaments are known for their ease of printing, shiny and smooth surface finish and water resistance. It is known both by the name polyester and by the name it gives to plastic bottles. Among the advantages is durability, because it does not break easily, it is a recyclable material and does not emit odors during 3D printing.

PP versus PC 3D filament

Polycarbonate is a lightweight yet durable thermoplastic material, ideal for a wide range of professional applications. PC is impact resistant, heat resistant and flexible without breaking. Polycarbonate is a hygroscopic thermoplastic material, meaning it absorbs humidity from the air, it is important to store it in a dry environment, otherwise it tends to swell and is very sensitive to UV rays.

Frequently asked questions about 3D PP filament

Are PP filaments biodegradable?

PP filaments are not biodegradable, but can be recycled and reused.

Is PP filament toxic?

No, PP filament is non-toxic. Polypropylene is considered the safest plastic on the market.

What is the recommended temperature for printing with PP filaments?

The optimal temperature is 45-60°C, because we know that polypropylene deforms quite easily.