Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS plastic, is an amorphous engineering thermoplastic whose main features are impact resistance, rigidity, high gloss, and low cost compared to other engineering resins. ABS resins are used in a variety of applications including automotive, appliances, construction, electronics, and business machinery.
ABS is a terpolymer formed by the polymerization of acrylonitrile and styrene in the presence of butadiene rubber. The ratios of the three monomers can be varied considerably, thereby yielding many different grades and properties.
Butadiene rubber provides ABS its impact strength. Notched izod impact ratings can range from 2 to 10 ft-lbs/in at room temperature with most injection molding grades falling somewhere in between.
Acrylonitrile content provides ABS with better mechanical properties as well as thermal, chemical, and weather resistance characteristics.
The styrene component makes ABS shiny, improves mechanical properties, provides good abrasion resistance, and makes it easy to process.
ABS plastic is a versatile material that offers many benefits for injection molded parts. Its properties make it an ideal choice for many industries and applications. If you’re considering using ABS plastic for your injection molded parts, be sure to contact a AGS Technology to learn more about its Injectoblend™ grades and how it can benefit your project.