In 1938, Bayer and GE started independently and developed the production technology of PC similar to each other. In 1958, the PC entered the market.
It is a transparent amorphous polymer with excellent physical properties, such as impact resistance (almost no break), 125℃ heat resistance, and great transparency. PC is either opaque or transparent. It is often taken to replace glasses.
POM appeared in the 1920s. It was not commercialized at first due to its heat instability. By the year 1952, Dupont has developed a stable technology for POM and got a patent in 1956. Finally in 1960 POM entered the market.
Chemical resistance and hydrophobicity bring POM low friction and self-lubrication, making it an ideal material for bearings, wheels, trundles, and other wearable components. Additionally, it is also used in food industries.
PSU is famous for its “toughness and stability under high temperature”. Entering the market in 1965, PSU is considered as “the best heat resistant thermoplastic”. PSU can be transparent and sometimes an advanced alternative to PC.
Due to its heat resistance, PSU works as a kind of fire retardant in some applications. PSU is also an ideal choice for the medical apparatus. It is available for the repeated sterilization and disinfection required in the medical industry.
PSU is an expensive engineering resin that also has the advantages of chemical/solvent resistance and low water absorption.
PBT was introduced into the market by Ticona in 1970. As a semi-crystallized resin, PBT is excellent in mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties. The contraction rate is small in the process that makes the final products sturdy.
Other common properties of PBT are high-temperature resistance, low water absorption, insulation, and flame retardancy. It is widely used in the automotive, consumer electronics, and medical industries.
