Both polystyrene and polypropylene have a wide range of popular uses in the moulding and architectural industries, and each fill very specific needs.
Despite their very different sounding names, people often get these types of plastics confused. At High Profile Architectural Mouldings, we specialise in polystyrene, but also know a lot about polypropylene, and in this article, we will explain some of the differences between the two.
Polypropylene Explained
Polypropylene is a popular thermoplastic which is made from propylene monomers. Which is commonly used in the packaging of a variety of products as well as plastic parts that serve in commercial, fashion and industrial applications. As far as home building and architecture goes, this thermoplastic is often seen in hinges as well as other practical and decorative pieces. The advantageous properties of polypropylene include:
Strength and durability – This thermoplastic is built to last and does not break very easily, making this a cost-effective plastic for many different projects.
Resistance to high temperatures – While the maximum temperature will depend heavily on the grade of polypropylene, the melting point of this material lies somewhere between 130°C – 171°C
Resistance to chemicals – Polypropylene is highly resistant to most acids and bases, giving it many use cases in industrial applications.
One of the major disadvantages of this thermoplastic is its difficulty to bond with other substances.
Polystyrene Explained
Polystyrene is a household name that is often referred to as Styrofoam. This thermoplastic is a solid at room temperature, but once melted down, it can be moulded to create a variety of forms that are used across a range of industries. In the architecture and décor industries, polystyrene is often used in a broad range of decorative mouldings.
Resistance to heat – Polystyrene is not quite as heat resistant as polypropylene, but it is able to resist temperatures of up to 100°C.
Glass-like effect – Polystyrene is very versatile, but it can achieve a glass-like effect that is clear and brittle and gives it a myriad of uses in the design industry.
Chemical resistance – While not quite on the same level of resistance as polypropylene, polystyrene offers a high level of resistance to both acids and bases.
Why We Specialise in Polystyrene
At High Profile Architectural Mouldings, we work exclusively with polystyrene coated in polyurethane in our high-quality architectural mouldings. The polystyrene we use is completely shockproof, lightweight and is built to last. It allows for us to achieve a wide range of different decorative elements and trims.
Looking for a company that offers a wide range of different moulding polystyrene services? Look no further than High Profile Architectural Mouldings to take care of all your polystyrene design needs. Contact us today at info@highprofilemouldings.com.au or call us at (07) 5568 0036
