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ASA
is a highly weather-resistant thermoplastic with excellent impact resistance. Components made of ASA stand out for their high-quality surface finish and are ideal for long-lasting outdoor applications.
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Abbreviation
ASA
Molecular formula
(C₈H₈ · C₇H₁₂O₂ · C₃H₃N)ₓ
CAS no.
26299-47-8
General description
Acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA) is an engineering thermoplastic that combines outstanding mechanical properties with excellent weather and UV resistance. This makes the material ideal for components intended for long-term outdoor use that must withstand intense sunlight and varying weather conditions.
The material can be processed flexibly via injection molding and extrusion. Depending on the requirements, grades are available with customised impact strength, heat resistance, color, and surface appearance. This enables versatile use in the automotive industry, the construction sector, and the electrical and electronics industries.
Compared to ABS, ASA really demonstrates its strengths when significantly higher weather resistance is required while maintaining a similar property profile.
ASA offers
Surface Quality
ASA enables the production of components with a flawless surface finish. Depending on the type of material, a wide variety of colors and elegant surface effects can be flexibly achieved.
Weather resistance
Thanks to its outstanding resistance to UV radiation and changing weather conditions, ASA is the ideal choice for outdoor applications and long-term outdoor use.
Impact resistance
ASA combines mechanical stability with high impact resistance, making it ideal for high-stress and demanding housing components and rugged trim parts.
Properties of ASA
Mechanical properties:
ASA’s mechanical properties make it a versatile material. ASA offers good impact strength and stiffness, making it suitable for components that need to be both durable and dimensionally stable. Its good dimensional stability supports precise shaping and reliable fit. Even in outdoor applications, the mechanical properties remain comparatively well preserved thanks to its good weather resistance. Specific performance characteristics—such as impact strength at low temperatures depend on the specific type of ASA.
Thermal properties:
The thermoplastic ASA is designed for continuous use at temperatures up to 90 °C and can withstand short-term peak temperatures of up to 100 °C. In terms of flame behavior, ASA produces a bright yellow flame without significant dripping; flame-retardant modified grades are available for sensitive applications. The material’s ignition temperature ranges from 390 °C, and the actual flash point is reached at approximately 480 °C. Thanks to this thermal stability and its high UV resistance, ASA remains dimensionally stable even under extreme weather conditions and temperature fluctuations.
Chemical properties:
ASA is resistant to dilute acids and alkalis, as well as many aqueous salt solutions. Contact with water and various fats and oils is also generally not a problem, depending on the operating conditions. Resistance to fuels and other hydrocarbons, however, may be limited. Aromatic and chlorinated solvents, as well as some other organic solvents, can attack ASA or cause stress cracks. Actual resistance depends on concentration, temperature, and duration of exposure and should be evaluated for the specific application using the data sheet or through testing.
Additional specific properties
A distinctive property of ASA is its high resistance to UV radiation and weathering. As a result, components made of ASA retain their color and mechanical properties longer in outdoor applications than many comparable plastics. The material can be colored and is suitable for visible applications where a permanently attractive surface is required.
Processing Instructions
Before processing, ASA should be dried according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Moisture in the granules can impair the surface quality and properties of the finished part.
Drying temperature: approximately 80–90 °C
Drying time: approximately 2–4 hours (dry air dryer)
Note: Refer to the specifications for the respective ASA type in the technical data sheet
Residual moisture: < 0.1%
Processing temperatures must be adjusted to the selected ASA type, the part geometry, and the processing method. Any differing specifications in the technical data sheet take precedence.
Material temperature: approximately 220–260 °C
Mold temperature: approximately 40–80 °C
Dwell time and shear stress: Design to minimize stress on the material as much as possible
During color changes or at the end of production: Follow the manufacturer’s flushing and cleaning instructions
Applications of ASA
Automotive Industry: ASA is used for exterior trim, panels, and other visible components where weather resistance and surface quality are important.
Construction Industry: Profiles, covers, and housings used outdoors benefit from its resistance to sunlight and weather.
Electrical and Electronics Industry: ASA is suitable for enclosures and covers, especially when devices or components are used outdoors.
Garden and Leisure: Thanks to its weather resistance, ASA is a suitable material option for durable, visible plastic parts in outdoor applications.
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