Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO)
The basic PPO polymer produced
by the coupling of phenolic monomers was patented
in 1964 by General Electric Plastics who
introduced modified forms as the NorylŪ range in
1966. Raw PPO was expensive and difficult to
process but ready blending with polymers such as
polystyrene gave an acceptable balance of
properties. Most references to PPO refer to such
blended polymer products.
PPO thermoplastics offer properties between
common thermoplastic polymers and higher
engineering types, e.g. polycarbonates. PPO can
be moulded by a range of processes such as
injection, extrusion and extrusion blow moulding,
thermoforming and foaming. Ease of electroplating,
painting and welding add to a wide range of
applications.
PPO products are characterised by exceptional
moisture resistance, high dimensional and thermal
stabilities, good flame resistance and high
electrical resistance properties.
PPO products have provided valuable
contributions in water pumps, automotive and
electrical components, power tool housing,
appliance casings and as foams in superior foam
sandwich structures.
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