ABS
is a robust and versatile thermoplastic, ideal for household appliances, automotive and electronics, and attractive for prototyping and 3D printing.
Abbreviation
ABS
Molecular formula
(C₈H₈·C₄H₆·C₃H₃N)ₙ
CAS no.
9003-56-9
General description
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a versatile engineering thermoplastic that is widely used in industry due to its robustness and flexibility. This amorphous polymer is widely used in the household appliance, automotive and electronics industries and is fully recyclable, making it a valuable choice for sustainable product development.
ABS impresses with its flexibility in prototype production, as it is easy to process and offers high chemical resistance and heat resistance. Typical post-processing techniques such as painting, electroplating and grinding are possible without any problems, which makes the material particularly attractive for 3D printing.
The properties of ABS can be individually adjusted by adding additives and varying the monomer ratio. These adjustments result in types with optimised impact strength and heat resistance. With these modified properties, ABS is suitable for a wide range of technical applications and meets various industrial requirements.
ABS offers
High impact resistance
ABS offers exceptional impact resistance, making it ideal for applications in extreme conditions.
Excellent surface quality
ABS offers a wide range of design options and outstanding surface quality.
Chemical and heat resistance
ABS is resistant to many chemicals and retains its shape at high temperatures, which supports its industrial versatility.
Properties of ABS
Thermal properties
ABS is a thermoplastic and can be used continuously at temperatures up to 85 °C, although it is heat-resistant up to 100 °C for short periods. The material itself burns with a bright yellow flame without dripping and is available in flame-retardant variants. The ignition temperature is around 390 °C, while the flash point is reached at around 480 °C. These thermal properties make ABS a stable material for use in changing temperature conditions.
Mechanical properties
The mechanical properties of ABS are impressive and guarantee a wide range of applications. ABS is known for its high impact strength, which remains even at low temperatures. With its high rigidity and dimensional stability, ABS is ideal for applications that require precise dimensional stability. In addition, ABS offers a glossy surface and excellent insulation properties, which further promote its use in industrial applications. Its versatility in processing is also characterised by good weldability; ABS is also suitable for integrating metal inserts.
Chemical properties
ABS is characterised by its excellent resistance to diluted acids, alkalis and saturated hydrocarbons such as petrol, which makes it particularly resistant to many types of chemicals. It is also resistant to mineral oils and animal and vegetable fats. However, its resistance to concentrated mineral acids and some organic solvents such as aromatic hydrocarbons is limited. Targeted pigmentation and additional UV stabilisation can significantly improve the moderate weather resistance of ABS.
Specific properties
In terms of electrical insulation, ABS has high surface and volume resistivity, making it a suitable material for electrical applications. The polarity of ABS allows for easy finishing by coating, painting and printing. Another special feature of this plastic is its ability to be electroplated, making ABS the first choice for the production of chrome-plated surfaces.
Processing instructions
Areas of application for ABS
Household appliances and electronics: ABS is often used for electrical appliance housings because it offers robust and durable properties that are ideal for protecting sensitive electronics.
Automotive industry: In the automotive sector, ABS is used both in the interior and in painted form for exterior applications. Its high impact strength and surface quality make it particularly suitable for these applications.
Construction industry: ABS is used in the construction industry for drainage pipes and profiles. Its resistance to chemicals and high dimensional stability make it ideal for use in infrastructure applications.
Toys and leisure: Thanks to its high safety and durability, ABS is used in the manufacture of toy building blocks and sports equipment, where its flexibility and resistance are particularly appreciated.
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