ABS
ABS
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is an opaque and amorphous thermoplastic that is very popular across several industry sectors. This affordable engineering hygroscopic polymer is constituted of three monomers, acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. Usually composed of about half styrene with the balance divided between acrylonitrile and butadiene. Further variations in ratio compositions will result in many different grades. Acrylonitrile modifier offers chemical resistance. Butadiene provides toughness and impact resistance, while styrene offers rigidity and processability.
The discovery of ABS appeared with the desire to improve synthetic styrene butadiene rubber (SBR). ABS was originally patented in 1948 and introduced to commercial markets in 1954. In the 1960s and 1970s, ABS became widely used as a material for toys, household appliances, and automotive parts. It was known for its strength, toughness, and ability to be molded into a variety of shapes. In the 1980s and 1990s, ABS continued to be used in a range of applications, including electronic housings, and sporting goods.
Today, ABS is used in a wide variety of applications.
ABS Material Properties and Characteristics
- Recyclable
- High impact strength and toughness
- Good heat resistance and dimensional stability
- Good chemical resistance
- Can be easily thermoformed
- Can be easily machined
- Can be produced in low, medium or high levels of gloss
- Good insulation properties
- UV resistant
- Can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications
- Cost-efficient material
- Antistatic
Applications for ABS
- Automotive : Such as bumpers, dashboards, and trim for cars and trucks.
- Consumer goods : Wide range of consumer goods such as toys, phone cases, and household appliances.
- Construction : Pipes, drainage systems, and roofing materials.
- Electronics : Such as computer housings, telephone casings and mobile phone covers.
- Medical Devices : Such as diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments and diagnostic test kits.
- Packaging : Such as food trays, blister packs, and clamshell containers.
- Signage and Displays : Signs, displays, and advertising materials.
- Furniture : Part such as chair seats and backs, bed frames, and table tops.
- Industrial : Such as tanks, liners, and chemical handling systems .
- Recreational : Such as skis, snowboards, and golf club heads.
