ABS

What is ABS plastic?

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is an opaque amorphous thermoplastic polymer. Thermoplastics turns pliable at their melting temperatures and solidifies upon cooling without significant degradation. 3 components in ABS provide their unique characteristics. Acrylonitrile provides chemical and thermal stability, butadiene provides impact resistance and strength while styrene provides a durable glossy finish.

Why is ABS a good plastic?

ABS is a chemical and impact-resistant plastic that is easy to machine. It is lightweight and has a low melting temperature, making it an ideal choice for injection molding and extrusions. ABS can be colored easily, allowing manufacturers to offer a wide variety of colors. Other advantages include low heat and electric conductivity, making it popular in consumer applications. ABS is well suited for recycling since it can be heated and cooled many times without degradation.

Does ABS plastic break easily?

ABS plastic's mechanical properties include impact resistance and toughness. ABS is chemical resistant and can be heated and cooled many times. UV exposure will degrade ABS plastics unless it is protected properly. It also has low resistance to solvents and fatigue.

What are common uses for ABS plastic?

Since ABS plastic is lightweight, chemical and impact-resistant, easy to machine and can be made in a variety of colors, it is commonly used for:

• Automotive parts (interior trim & wheel covers)
• Musical instruments (clarinets & recorders)
• Sports safety equipment (pads & helmets)
• Computer parts (keyboard keys & mouse buttons)
• Toys (Lego bricks)
• 3D printing filament
• Plumbing pipes
• Electrical components (wall plates, switches, sockets)
• Household appliances (vacuum cleaners, telephones, kitchen gadgets)