Transforming multiple industries, Expanded polypropylene (EPP) is a highly versatile, closed-cell moulded foam material with a list of impressive properties compared to ‘traditional’ packaging materials, including durability and vastly reduced environmental impact.

Since our first production run of EPP, our clients have been highly impressed by its outstanding energy absorption, multiple impact resistance, thermal insulation, buoyancy, water and chemical resistance and exceptionally high strength to weight ratio. It is nothing short of a revolution in terms of packaging. Add its durability properties and it opens up storage potential too, eliminating single use options. It is also 100% recyclable. EPP can be moulded in a wide range of densities, from 18 to 260 grams per litre – individual beads are fused into final product form using the steam chest moulding process resulting in a strong and lightweight shape. Here are some of the key features of EPP:

Moulding methods and characteristics of EPP

• Lightweight: standard density = 17-100kg/m3
• Bespoke densities may be requested for specific client requirements.
• The raw material is heated in the mould using steam. The particles on the surface of the raw material reach the dissolution boundary point and knot (popcorn expansion principle).
• Expanded polypropylene (EPP) is a semi-rigid form with a moderate hardness yet in transit, with vibrations and general impacts, it’s soft enough to offer excellent damage protection.
• The plasticiser in the finished product does not erode the buffer material.
• The finished product is injection moulded, so the shapes of the finished products are infinitely customisable.
• The surface is smooth and neat.

Heat resistance

• EPP is a more heat-resistant and a better heat insulation material than expanded polyethylene (EPE).
• EPP can withstand temperatures from -40℃ to 130℃ and wide temperature ranges in a short period of time while still offering good buffering performance.

The environmental impact of EPP

• EPP is 100% recyclable.
• In contrast to other foams, EPP is a pure hydrocarbon material and does not contain chemicals that make difficult to recycle, such as plasticisers or foaming agents.
• EPP dissolves when heated to form water and carbon dioxide.
• Even if the atomisation test is carried out at 100℃ Celsius, EPP complies with environmental regulations.
• When EPP is combined with other polypropylenes, such as PP film, injection moulding frames, TPO fabrics, it achieves ‘material integration system’, so the system does not need to be broken down when recycled.
• Since the advent of EPP in the 1990s, it has become the favoured material for energy and shock absorption and its application potential is broad.
• EPP is highly suitable and widely used in the automotive, packaging, electronics, transportation, logistics, model building, sports goods and construction industries.
• At present, many car models use EPP material as a buffer energy absorption component, using it as a bumper core, side guard plate, inner door plate, energy absorption protection pad, cushion pad, headrest core, sun visor core and toolbox organiser.

USES

PACKAGING >
Protection and spacer packaging
Computer, medical, precision instruments, audio-visual, photo, liquid crystal, ceramics, crafts, household appliances and more

LOGISTICS / TRANSPORT >
Shock buffer to avoid damage during transportation
EPP protection spacer, EPP pallet, EPP turnover box

CONSTRUCTION >
Insulation, heat preservation, sound insulation and building materials
Due to low thermal conductivity, low water vapour permeability, high energy absorption and compressibility of EPP materials, it is suitable for filling spaces on uneven surfaces

AUTOMOTIVE >
Car bumpers, shock cores of car sides and doors, safety car seats, tool sections, trunks, armrests, bottom plates, visors, dashboards
A single car uses an average of 100-130kg of plastic, of which EPP plastic accounts for approx 4-6kg

HOME AND ELECTRONICS >
Packaging and insulation
Used in refrigeration, air conditioner lining, solar water heating, communication equipment lining plates

MODEL BUILDING / SPORTS >
Product packaging
Model airplanes and other toys, sports equipment: helmets, surfboards, buckets, exercise mats

As the world increasingly seeks sustainable solutions for packaging and storage, Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) stands out as a revolutionary material that delivers on both performance and eco-friendliness. By embracing EPP, industries can secure a greener future while enjoying the many benefits this innovative material has to offer. Join the revolution and explore the potential of EPP for your packaging and storage needs today. Get in touch to find out how we can unlock the potential of EPP for your brand.