Polypropylene - What is polypropylene?

Definition of POLYPROPYLENE:

Polypropylene (PP) is a type of polyolefin film (sometimes called “polypropene”); a synthetic resin produced through the polymerisation of propylene, polypropylene is the second most commonly used plastic in the world (after polyethylene) because it has a large number of highly desirable properties that make it useful for a variety of purposes. As a thermoplastic polymer, polyethylene becomes liquid at its melting point, which means it is extremely easy to mould to shape and can be reheated and moulded into a new shape without significant degradation of the material.

While there are a variety of different kinds of polyethylene (each with its own set of useful properties and characteristics), as a general rule polyethylene is chosen because it is a lightweight material that is also tough and durable, and offers high resistance to moisture and chemicals, good insulation, good dimensional stability and tear resistance, is suitable for use in low temperature applications, and provides a much more flexible alternative to other plastics.

In labelling, polypropylene is most commonly used as a face material for labels and can be produced as a near-transparent, translucent, or opaque film.

At Label Planet, we use polypropylene to make our waterproof inkjet labels and our holographic stickers.

Our waterproof inkjet labels are white in colour with a matt finish and a marine standard adhesive. They are our only waterproof inkjet labels capable of producing completely waterproof labels (including the print). They are especially popular for label applications where a label needs to be waterproof and/or able to adhere to curved or unusual surfaces (e.g. when labelling containers such as bottles and drums).

Our holographic stickers are silver in colour with a gloss holographic finish and a standard permanent adhesive. They are designed for laser printers only. They have a highly decorative appearance and are popular for use as decorative stickers in themselves or for labelling items (including gift tags, address labels, product labels, and marketing and promotional labels) intended for special events or occasions (such as weddings, birthdays, christenings, parties, and holidays like Christmas).

Here is the Harvard-style citation to use if you would like to reference this definition of the word polypropylene:
Label Planet (2020) What is polypropylene? | Polypropylene Definition. Available at: https://www.labelplanet.co.uk/glossary/polypropylene/ (Accessed: January 1, 2023).