Engineering thermoplastics

Abstract

Engineering polymers comprise a special, high-performance segment of synthetic plastic materials that offer premium properties. When properly formulated, they may be shaped into mechanically functional, semiprecision parts, or structural components. The term “mechanically functional” implies that the parts will continue to function even if they are subjected to factors such as mechanical stress, impact, flexure, vibration, sliding friction, temperature extremes, and hostile environments. This chapter focuses on the development of engineering thermoplastics during the past 45 years. A significant driving force behind the growth in engineering thermoplastics is the continuing expansion of electrical/electronic markets, which demands smaller, lighter components that operate at higher speeds. In addition, the same requirements are driving the automotive market segment. Original Equipment Manufacturers strive towards lower production cost; style flexibility; lower maintenance; and more efficient, lower polluting vehicles that utilize better performing materials under the hood and in exterior components. The future of engineering plastics looks bright. Those industries served by these plastics, and many others, who use traditional materials such as metals, glass, and ceramics, will look to the benefits of engineering polymers to provide them with cost effective materials to help overcome the pressures of spiraling costs. The world economy will continue to influence technical trends. The commercialization of any new engineering polymer based on a new monomer, is unlikely. Rather, the major thrust will take place in molecular shuffling with existing monomers, blend activity, and processing improvements. Key examples are the commercialization of aliphatic polyketones and syndiotactic polystyrene, which use commodity monomers.