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ABS resin’s features: material introduction

Throughout the world, various synthetic resins, including plastics, have been developed over time. We have already talked about the main characteristics of one of the most common resin types: transparent resins. In this blog post we will continue our understanding on synthetic resins by analyzing another vastly used type: ABS resin.

ABS resin is a well-balanced material made by combining three types of monomers. It offers high versatility and is widely utilized in a wide range of products, including household appliances, automobiles, furniture, and construction materials. However, when considering its applications, it’s important to assess whether it is suitable based on factors that might undermine its performance.

What is ABS Resin

ABS resin, also known as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene resin, is a thermoplastic resin created using three types of monomers, each with unique characteristics: Acrylonitrile (A), Butadiene (B), and Styrene (S). Additionally, by adjusting the ratios and bonding methods of each monomer, various types of ABS resin with different characteristics can be produced.

Acrylonitrile: Heat resistance, mechanical strength (rigidity), oil resistance
Butadiene: Impact resistance (rubber-like properties)
Styrene: Glossiness, moldability (processability), dimensional stability

ABS resin possesses a well-balanced combination of various mechanical characteristics and an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Due to its versatility, it is used in a wide range of applications as a general-purpose plastic material.

ABS Resin's Features: Advantages

Possibility to Add or Modify Components

By adding new components beyond the existing ones (acrylonitrile, butadiene, styrene) or substituting some existing components with others, a variety of ABS resin types can be produced. This is one of the most important strengths of this material, as by adding new components it’s possible to make it even more versatile, overcoming its disadvantages. For instance, “reinforced ABS resin” with enhanced rigidity can be created by adding glass fibers, and “ACS resin” using chlorinated polyethylene in place of butadiene is also known.

High Heat Resistance

ABS resin resists to temperatures up to 100°C, which is comparable to materials like polyethylene and polystyrene. While it doesn’t possess exceptionally high heat resistance, it is sufficient for general applications.

Impact Resistance

Due to the presence of butadiene, ABS resin exhibits rubber-like impact resistance.

Flexible Processing

ABS resin has good processability and can be molded using various methods such as injection molding, extrusion molding, calendaring, and vacuum forming. Additionally, processes like cutting, adhesive bonding, welding, and various surface treatments (plating, painting) are possible. Recently, its processability has been leveraged for materials used in 3D printers.

ABS Resin's Features: Disadvantages

Low Weather Resistance and Susceptibility to Degradation

ABS resin has low weather resistance, and prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to discoloration and gloss deterioration. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid using ABS resin in locations with strong ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as outdoors. Recently, improved weather-resistant ABS resins have been developed by incorporating surface treatments or UV absorbers.

Vulnerability to Organic Solvents

ABS resin doesn’t exhibit particularly high chemical resistance. It is especially vulnerable to organic solvents, and prolonged exposure to such solvents can lead to degradation and increased fragility.

Low Flame Resistance

Flammability is a drawback of ABS resin. When exposed to flames, ABS resin can burn emitting smoke and a distinctive odor. Nonetheless, various flame-retardant components have been added to create flame-resistant ABS resins that are less prone to combustion.

Applications of ABS Resin

ABS resin, with its well-balanced properties and versatile processing methods, finds application in a wide range of everyday products. Here are some examples of its uses:

Home Appliances

Components for devices such as televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, fans, hair dryers, air conditioners, and more.

Automotive Industry

Parts like front grills, radiator grills, instrument panels, door panels, front covers, lamp covers, console boxes, and other interior components.

General Equipment

Parts for devices like printers, photocopiers, computers, telephones, fax machines, and more.

Machining

Machined ABS is used in manufacturing equipment parts, exterior components, and more. Additionally, ABS blocks can be used for prototypes of new products.

Conclusion

ABS resin is a thermoplastic resin composed of three types of monomers: acrylonitrile (A), butadiene (B), and styrene (S). Because it combines the properties of each constituent component, ABS resin achieves a balanced set of mechanical characteristics and is utilized in various applications. ABS resin offers advantages such as heat and impact resistance, good processability, and high design versatility. It’s also possible to impart various properties by altering the ratios and bonding methods of the individual monomers. On the other hand, disadvantages include low weather resistance, vulnerability to organic solvents, and flammability.

A resin commonly used for similar applications as ABS resin is polycarbonate. While ABS resin falls short of polycarbonate in terms of heat resistance, impact resistance, and flame resistance, it surpasses polycarbonate in resistance to alkalis.