The evolution of construction has an obvious, and essential, relationship with the materials it uses. Throughout history, available materials have shaped the way construction has progressed. From the mud bricks of ancient Mesopotamia to the steel beams of modern skyscrapers, we see it everywhere around us, all throughout history.
Today, we aren’t using mud bricks. Instead, materials such as polymer resins are emerging as materials used to create rigorously strong, safe, and cost-effective construction.
From the durability of Polycarbonate (PC) to the versatility of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polymers offer benefits that many legacy materials can’t compete with.
From the inception of a working construction project to the final touches, we’ll explore how essential polymer resins help us build for a better future.
The Rise of Polymer Resins
Over centuries, materials have influenced both the innovation and safety of construction. And none have been more influential in recent times than polymer resins. Their introduction into the market meant less reliance on building materials such as wood, concrete, and metal. And there are a great many benefits to using polymer resins in construction.
The rise of polymer resins as an influence in construction projects began in the early 20th century. The discovery and development of materials like nylon and polystyrene began a new era. While they began earliest in the automotive industry, they eventually found their way into construction.
Polymer resins are lighter weight, have a high strength-to-weight ratio, are resistant to corrosion, and are more easily molded into intricate designs. Due to these factors, construction planners and developers began to seek out polymer resins as a way to improve both design and safety.
From impressive skyscrapers to eco-friendly green buildings, today we’re surrounded by the influence of polymer resins. Feel free to check out our basic guide to polymer resins, but for now, we’ll dive deeper into how each material plays a role.
Key Polymer Resins in Modern Construction
Polycarbonate (PC)
When it comes to protective attributes, polycarbonate is one of the more impressive. It’s ability to resist impact makes it widely used for transparent items such as windows, skylights, or greenhouse panels.
Learn more about Polycarbonate (PC)
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Construction companies use ABS PC for its tough, rigid plastic. It has an ability to be injection molded. This makes ABS perfect for piping systems that transport water. It also resist corrosion.
Learn more about Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA)
A level up from ABS, ASA is also weather and UV resistant. Construction made from ASA retains its color even after years of exposure to sunlight. This makes it a perfect material for siding, roof tiles, and window borders.
Learn more about Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA)
Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
PBT is a polymer that’s conducive in use with electrical components such as junction boxes. It possesses high durability which helps items made using it last longer.
Learn more about Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT)
Polyetherimide (PEI)
This heat resistant and flame retardant material is used in electrical housings, high-performance composites, and any interior applications where fire resistance is a crucial aspect.
Learn more about Polyetherimide (PEI)
Nylon 6
Resistant to wear and abrasion, you’ll find Nylon 6 just below your feet in carpeting and flooring.
Nylon 66
Similar to Nylon 6 but with slightly superior thermal properties and rigidity due to its molecular structure. Used in a variety of mechanical parts, high-performance fibers, and fixtures due to its strength and durability.
Each of these polymer resins offer a unique set of attributes which make their use cases versatile across numerous modern construction applications. As the technology surrounding polymer resins continues to evolve, so shall construction sophistication and costs.