Plain-language definitions of 133 terms used in raw material trade: Incoterms, payment, shipping, customs, quality documents, plastics, metals, chemicals, agriculture and energy.
A homopolymer is made from one monomer (e.g. propylene only); it is hard, stiff and cheap, used for raffia, BOPP film and general injection moulding. A random copolymer has a little ethylene randomly built into the chain, making it clearer and more flexible – preferred for transparent containers and hot-water pipe (PP-R). A block or impact copolymer contains a rubbery phase giving high impact strength at low temperatures, used for automotive parts, pails and crates. Because the wrong type causes cracking or clarity problems, the order must state the type clearly.
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