Plastic materials come in different shapes and sizes, and most of them have different properties that make them ideal for specific applications. Each type of plastic material is commonly called by an acronym or abbreviation to identify it in the industry. Here is a list of commonly used plastics acronyms and abbreviations used to designate different types of plastic:
ABS - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
PA - Polyamide
PE - Polyethylene
PP - Polypropylene
PS - Polystyrene
PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride
TPE - Thermoplastic Elastomer
TPV - Thermoplastic Vulcanizate
PC - Polycarbonate
PMMA - Polymethyl Methacrylate
PBT - Polybutylene Terephthalate
PET - Polyethylene terephthalate
PAI - Polyamide-imide
PEEK - Polyetheretherketone
PTFE - Polytetrafluoroethylene
ABS is a common type of plastic that is known for its impact resistance, hardness, stiffness and heat-resistance. ABS is widely used in automotive, building, electrical and white goods applications. It is also very widely used in the production of 3D printing filament.
PA, or Polyamide, is a family of thermoplastics that refer to both synthetic and semi-synthetic fibers that are closely related to nylon. These materials are often used in industrial applications such as automotive components and filtration systems, due to their high impact and abrasion resistance.
PE is Polyethylene, a plastic material made from petroleum and is the most widely used plastic, with a range of applications in virtually every industry. It can be rigid or flexible, depending on the type of product it is used for. PE is widely used in packaging, insulation, coatings and pipes.
PP is Polypropylene, a durable plastic that is used for a variety of applications, including packaging and industrial products. It is also an excellent choice for use as insulation, due to its electrical and chemical resistance.
PS is Polystyrene, a thermoplastic material that is commonly used in the production of things like consumer product packaging, insulation and food containers. It is also a popular choice in the production of some consumer electronics products.
PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride, is a type of plastic that is used in a variety of applications, ranging from plumbing and construction, to consumer goods and automobiles. It is extremely durable and resistant to corrosion, and is an excellent choice for products that require a higher level of strength and chemical resistance.
TPE, or Thermoplastic Elastomer, is a type of plastic designed to have properties similar to both rubber and plastic. These materials are very flexible and durable, and can be used in a range of applications from automotive parts to medical devices.
TPV, or Thermoplastic Vulcanizate, is a type of plastic that is known for its superior strength, weather and environmental resistance, and is often used in the production of automotive parts and other industrial components.
PC, or Polycarbonate, is a family of thermoplastic polymers that are extremely transparent, and are a popular choice for use in the production of glasses and lenses. It also has excellent thermal and impact resistance, making it an ideal material for automotive windshields and other safety equipment.
PMMA, or Polymethyl Methacrylate, is a well-known thermoplastic polymer that is known for its transparency, superior stiffness, and ease of machining. It is often used for the production of acrylic lenses and medical devices.
PBT, or Polybutylene Terephthalate, is a strong material that has good dimensional stability and is resistant to a broad range of chemicals and solvents. It is often used in industrial and transportation applications.
PET, or Polyethylene terephthalate, is one of the most widely used plastics, as it is a durable synthetic material with excellent thermal and moisture properties. It is commonly used for packaging food and beverages, as well as for the production of polyester fabrics.
PAI, or Polyamide-imide, is a family of polymers often used in applications where superior physical, chemical, and thermal properties are required. These materials are often used in aerospace and industrial applications.
PEEK, or Polyetheretherketone, is a thermoplastic material that is known for its excellent mechanical, electrical and chemically resistant properties. It is often used in aerospace, medical and automotive applications.
PTFE, or Polytetrafluoroethylene, is a family of plastics that are well-known for their non-stick properties, chemical and weather resistance, and superior temperature stability. It is a popular choice for use in medical and electrical applications.
