Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU, PPSF)

Properties and Applications

Polyphenylsulfone (PPSU, PPSF) is an amorphous, heat-resistant and transparent high-performance thermoplastic synthesized by nucleophilic aromatic substitution between difluorodiphenyl sulfone and the sodium salt of 4,4-dyhydroxybyphenyl with elimination of sodium fluoride. The biphenylene ether unit of PPSU markedly increases the impact strength and reduces the notch sensitivity, resulting in high notched (Izod) impact values which exceeds those of other polysulfones (PSU, PES).2 It also contributes to ease of melt fabrication. In fact, these resins can be readily injection molded or extruded on conventional equipment. However, processing requires relative high mold temperature of at about 365 to 395°C whereas glass fiber reinforced grades require even higher temperatures.1

Polyphenylsulfone.png

PPSU is the highest performing polysulfone. It is known for its high toughness, high flexural and tensile strength, excellent hydrolytic stability and good resistance to chemicals and heat. Compared to the two other polyethersulfones PSU and PES, it has superior mechanical properties, but it is also more expensive, and thus, less widely used. It also has the best chemical resistance of all polyethersulfones. For example, it is highly resistant to aqueous mineral acids, bases, and oxidizing agents and most solvents. However, aromatic solvents and oxygenated solvents, such as ketones and ethers, might cause some stress cracking.1

PPSU is often an excellent choice for components that are exposed to high temperatures and corrosive media because it has exceptional chemical resistance. Examples include pipe fittings, battery containers, medical device parts, and sterilizable products for health care and nursing. Polyphenylsulfone is also used in the automotive and aerospace industries for applications where superior thermal and mechanical properties relative to conventional resins are required. However, most (unfilled) grades are not suitable for outdoor uses because of poor weathering, ozone and UV resistance.

Manufacturers & Distributors

Companies

Brands

1Radel | Veradel | Acudel Polysulfone Design Guide, Solvay Specialty Polymers, 2014
2Polyphenylsulfone has excellent resistance to mechanical strength loss due to defects which is similar to that of polycarbonate, whereas polyethersulfone is sensitive to sharp notches but shows excellent toughness when the notch radius is large (> 0.5 mm or 20 mils).1