Block Copolymer is the second product category in Regal Petrochemical
plant. In block copolymers, the ethylene content is much higher than random
copolymers. The copolymerized part of the material is rubbery and forms a
separate dispersed phase within the PP matrix. As a result, block copolymerized
PP is much tougher than homopolymerized PP and can withstand higher
impact even at low temperatures but at the expense of transparency and
softening points. The main applications of block copolymerized PP are similar
to those of elastomer-modified PP but where the impact property requirement
is not that critical. Block compolyers are primarily used in injection molding
parts for appliances, housewares, luggage, outdoor furniture and automotive
applications. Other applications include extruded sheeting and substitutions
of super impact grades for engineering thermoplastics such as ABS. Extruded
sheets can be thermoformed into large, thick parts such as fender and trunk
liners for automotive applications or into small, odd-shaped parts such as food
containers for freezer-to-microwave use.