Material selection is an important step in the overmold material compatibility chart. Your decision isn’t just about which materials will result in the maximum adhesion, but also how those materials will perform in the field. Applications involving chemical exposure require extra care and attention, as not all overmolding materials offer the same degree of chemical resistance. Below is a basic comparison chart to help you understand how some of the most popular plastic resins stand up to different basic chemical groups.
*Note: material properties may vary. This chart is for general reference purpose only.
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Durable with excellent resistance to weather, flame, chemical, tension and abrasion. Can be hard and rigid or soft and flexible. | Poor regulatory reputation. Very stiff in cold weather. |
| Polypropylene (PP) | Inexpensive and versatile. High impact and wear resistance. Flexible with a high threshold for elongation. Resistant to acids and bases. Can become brittle in cold temperatures. | Not ideal for UV exposure or high heat applications. |
| Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Tough. Impact and chemical resistant. Widely used across different industries. Low shrink. High dimensional stability. Affordable. | Poor weather- and solvent-resistance. High smoke generation when burned. |
| Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) | High resistance to abrasion. High elasticity, making it a great performer in low temperatures. Resistance to oil, grease and solvents. | Not as cost-effective as other materials. |
| Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) | Performs like rubber but processes like plastics. Slip resistant. Excellent weather resistance. High shock absorption and flexibility. Soft texture. | Prone to warping. |
| Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) | Moderate to high strength. Can be tough and flexible. High resistance to fuels, oils, fats and many solvents. Does not absorb flavors. Resistance to high temperatures. | Not ideal for thin parts. |
