PP

Polypropylene is a very popular material in the polymer industry but is underrated in the 3D printing industry. It is a semi-flexible material with high flexibility, incredible durability, low weight, and resistance to water and chemicals. Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic semi-crystalline polymer exhibiting properties of good impact resistance and ductility. It also has a relatively non-polar molecular structure which makes it chemical resistant and thus ideal for use in food packaging and medical equipment. It is in fact well known in the adhesive industry that it is difficult to adhere polyolefin materials to other types of materials. This combined with the partial crystallinity makes it an especially hard material to print with.

How to print PP filament

PP will only stick to itself and therefore it is best to use regular packing tape on the hotbed. As a semi-flexible material, it is recommended to print slower than other filaments. We do not recommend exceeding 45mm/s. A closed chamber is not required.

PP mechanical and thermal properties

For 3D printing, PP is excellent for applications that need to be light, water-tight, or durable. Containers for food or liquids, as well as repeatedly bending clips and latches, are popular uses. Reinforced composite PP filaments are popular for printing parts for drones as they're light and durable. Some PP filaments have a density of only 0.75g/cc being 40% lighter than PLA. 

PP is known for its wear, abrasion, and fatigue resistance. It is typically resistant up to 75°C with a Vicat softening temperature of 135°C

Tips and other notable benefits

Although PP is considered a food-safe material, keep in mind that food safety in 3D printing is a bit more involved than simply the filament’s material properties. PP is dishwasher and microwave-safe. PP doesn't absorb moisture and has an excellent interlayer adhesion. 

Browse all PP filaments in stock in our warehouse in Senec, Slovakia. For comparison, see also Nylon and PVDF.