Also referred to as Polyphenylene (PPE) Plastics or polyphenylene oxide (PPO), these plastic resins are combined with other polymers to make useful alloys. PPE is compatible with polystyrene and is blended with (usually high-impact) PS over a wide range of ratios. Because both PPE and PS plastics are hydrophobic, the alloys have very low water absorption rates and high dimensional stability. They exhibit excellent dielectric properties over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures. PPE / PS alloys are supplied in flame-retardant, filled and reinforced, and structural foam molding grades. PPE can also be alloyed with nylon plastic to provide increased resistance to organic chemicals and better high-temperature performance. PPE / nylon plastic blends have been used in injection-mold automobile fenders.
