Lightweight plastics
Polyolefins dominate lightweight applications — PP and PE sit around 0.90–0.96 g/cm³ and float on water. TPX (PMP) is the lightest commercial thermoplastic. On the opposite end, fluoropolymers and heavily filled compounds exceed 2 g/cm³.
What to look for
- Density ≤ 1.0 g/cm³ when possible
- Adequate stiffness for the target application
- Compatible processing (injection, extrusion, blow)
Top materials for lightweight plastics
- #1Ceramic SLA ResinCeramic-Filled Photopolymer Resin for SLADensity: 1.50-2.50 g/cm³ (as printed)
SLA resin filled with ceramic particles for producing ceramic parts after firing.
- #2SMC/BMC for AutomotiveSheet Molding Compound / Bulk Molding CompoundDensity: 1.60-1.90 g/cm³
High strength-to-weight ratio, good impact resistance, and moldability for automotive parts.
- #3PET Glass FilledPolyethylene Terephthalate, Glass Fiber ReinforcedDensity: 1.50-1.70 g/cm³
Increased strength, stiffness, and thermal performance.
- #4Rigid Unsaturated PolyesterUnsaturated Polyester ResinDensity: 1.10-1.30 g/cm³
Versatile, cost-effective resin for composites, casting, and coatings.
- #5Lignin FillerLignin, Filler Grade SDensity: 1.2-1.4 g/cm³
A bio-derived aromatic polymer extracted from wood, used as a filler or building block for biocomposites.
- #6rTPU Flexible BlackRecycled Thermoplastic Polyurethane Flexible BlackDensity: 1.10-1.30 g/cm³
Flexible black recycled TPU for demanding applications.
- #7Aromatic Nylon GFAromatic Polyamide/Nylon, Glass Fiber ReinforcedDensity: 1.20-1.35 g/cm³
High stiffness, strength, and thermal resistance, excellent barrier properties.
- #8PBT Mineral FilledPolybutylene Terephthalate, Mineral FilledDensity: 1.45-1.60 g/cm³
Enhanced stiffness, dimensional stability, and reduced shrinkage.
- #9Glass-Filled PBTPolybutylene Terephthalate, Glass Fiber ReinforcedDensity: 1.45-1.60 g/cm³
Excellent electrical properties, stiffness, and heat resistance.
- #10Carbon Fiber PBTPolybutylene Terephthalate, Carbon Fiber ReinforcedDensity: 1.40-1.55 g/cm³
High stiffness, strength, and electrical conductivity.
- #11PVC Flexible CableFlexible Polyvinyl Chloride for Cable JacketingDensity: 1.20-1.35 g/cm³
Durable, flexible, and flame-retardant for electrical cable insulation and jacketing.
- #12Phenolic Resol ThermosetPhenolic Resol ResinDensity: 1.20-1.35 g/cm³
Good adhesion and flexibility, often used as binders and coatings.
- #13Bismaleimide for High PerformanceBismaleimide ResinDensity: 1.20-1.35 g/cm³
Excellent high-temperature performance, good mechanical properties, and low moisture absorption.
- #14Carbon Fiber PPSPolyphenylene Sulfide, Carbon Fiber ReinforcedDensity: 1.55-1.70 g/cm³
Exceptional stiffness, strength, thermal performance, and conductivity.
- #15PVC Rigid PipeRigid Polyvinyl Chloride for Pipe ApplicationsDensity: 1.30-1.45 g/cm³
Durable, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective for water and drainage pipes.
- #16CPVC Hot Water PipeChlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride for Hot Water PipingDensity: 1.50-1.65 g/cm³
Higher temperature and pressure rating than PVC for hot water systems.
- #17Phenolic Novolac ThermosetPhenolic Novolac ResinDensity: 1.25-1.40 g/cm³
High heat resistance and flame retardancy, commonly used in molding compounds.
- #18Chemical Resistant Vinyl EsterVinyl Ester ResinDensity: 1.10-1.25 g/cm³
Excellent chemical resistance, particularly to acids and solvents, with good mechanical properties.
- #19Alkyd Coating ResinAlkyd ResinDensity: 1.10-1.25 g/cm³
Durable, flexible film-forming resin for paints and coatings.
- #20High Temperature Thermoset PolyimideThermoset Polyimide ResinDensity: 1.30-1.45 g/cm³
Exceptional thermal stability, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance at high temperatures.