August 05, 2024 – Special engineering plastics, a significant segment within the plastics industry, are increasingly capturing the attention of the sector. These materials, known for their exceptional overall performance, can withstand long-term use at temperatures exceeding 150℃. They include Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS), Polyimide (PI), Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), Liquid Crystal Polymers (LCP), and Polysulfone (PSF). Characterized by rigid frameworks, high melting points, and ordered molecular chain arrangements, they excel in high-temperature environments, meeting special requirements such as high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. They find extensive applications in the manufacturing of electronic components, insulating materials, chemical equipment, and automotive engine parts.
PPS, the most widely used thermoplastic resin among polyarylene sulfides, stands out as a superior replacement for metal materials due to its chemical resistance, excellent mechanical properties, and thermal stability. PI, hailed as “one of the most promising engineering plastics of the 21st century,” exhibits stable performance within a range of -269℃ to 400℃, offering outstanding electrical insulation and mechanical properties. PEEK, occupying a pivotal position among semi-crystalline, thermoplastic aromatic polymers, is favored by industries such as aerospace and automotive for its flexibility and excellent processability. LCP and PSF also hold their own in the field of special engineering plastics with their unique properties.
According to insights from AsiaMB, the global market for special engineering plastics continues to expand, with projections indicating a market size of 138.2 billion yuan by 2027. As the global manufacturing hub, China’s rapid development in high-end manufacturing sectors such as new energy and aerospace has fueled the demand for special engineering plastics. Driven by policy support, a complete plastic industry supply chain, and cost advantages of products, China’s special engineering plastics industry is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 9.53%, reaching a market size of 21.2 billion yuan by 2027, outpacing the global growth rate during the same period. This trend underscores the promising outlook for special engineering plastics in both the Chinese and global markets.