Details
Material hierarchy: Polymer - Engineering Thermoplastic
Polyphenylene ether is abbreviated PPE. Also referred to as polyphenylene oxide (PPO), these resins are combined with other polymers to make useful alloys. PPE is compatible with polystyrene and is blended with (usually high-impact) PS over a wide range of ratios, yielding products with DTUL ratings from 175 to 350°F.
Because both PPE and PS are hydrophobic, the alloys have very low water absorption rates and high dimensional stability. They exhibit excellent dielectric properties over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures.
The resin will soften or dissolve in many halogenated or aromatic hydrocarbons. If an application requires exposure to or immersion in a given environment, stressed samples should be tested under operating conditions.
PPE/PS alloys are supplied in flame-retardant, filled and reinforced, and structural foam molding grades. They are used to mold housings for appliances and business machines, automotive instrument panels and seat backs, and fluid handling equipment. Blow molding sometimes is used to make large structural parts.
PPE can also be alloyed with nylon to provide increased resistance to organic chemicals and better high-temperature performance. PPE/nylon blends have been used to injection-mold automobile fenders.