May 7 2001
Image Credit: Flegere/Shutterstock.com
Cellulose propionate (CP) is derived from cellulose when it is reacted with propanoic acid (the reagent). CP is an organic ester with the following R group: H or -(C=O)CH2CH3. It is a thermoplastic type polymer.
Advantages
- Relatively lower plasticizer migration than cellulose acetate or cellulose acetate butyrate
- Stiffer than cellulose acetate or cellulose acetate butyrate
- Transparent and glossy with better low-temperature impact properties than cellulose acetate or cellulose acetate butyrate
Disadvantages
- Lower weathering resistance than cellulose acetate or cellulose acetate butyrate
- More expensive than cellulose acetate or cellulose acetate butyrate
- Attacked by acids and alkalis
- Woolen by chlorinated and aromatic hydrocarbons, alcohols and ketones
Typical Properties
| Property |
Value |
| Density |
1.22 |
| Surface Hardness |
RR94 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) |
35 |
| Flexural Modulus (GPa) |
1.76 |
| Notched Izod (kJ/M) |
0.13 |
| Linear Expansion (/°C x 10-5) |
12 |
| Elongation at Break (%) |
60 |
| Strain at Yield (%) |
4 |
| Maximum Operating Temperature (°C) |
60 |
| Water Absorption (%) |
1.8 |
| Oxygen Index (%) |
17 |
| Flammability UL94 |
HB |
| Volume Resistivity (log ohm.cm) |
12 |
| Dielectric Strength (MV/m) |
11 |
| Dissipation Factor 1kHz |
0.03 |
| Dielectric Constant 1kHz |
4 |
| HDT @ 0.45 MPa (°C) |
96 |
| HDT @ 1.80 MPa (°C) |
82 |
| Material Drying hrs @ (°C) |
2 @ 70 |
| Melting Temperature Range (°C) |
180 - 250 |
| Mould Shrinkage |
0.5 |
| Mould Temperature Range (°C) |
40 - 50 |
Applications
- Spectacle frames - injected around the hinges of the frame. Used for its low weight and superior optical properties compared to other commonly used polymers.
- Goggles - dual-layers in visors with other polymers. Used due to its excellent optical properties.
- Tool handles. As it is lightweight, it can help to reduce the weight of the tool.
- Covers for television screens. It gives the screen suitable protection from impact.
- Cutlery handles. It has high chemical resistance for contact with acidic food products.
This article was updated on 29th January, 2020.