EPP

Other Names:

Expanded polypropylene (Eperan 2 USA)

Description:

A closed-cell thermoplastic olefinic foam material. EPP is a beaded foam which has a memory; that is to say that it returns to its shape after being distorted. It is a white coloured foam with a waxy feel.

See Polypropylene (PP) and Foaming Materials Series, also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic polymer.

Polypropylene is recyclable and has the number "5" as its resin identification code.

It has a melting point between 130 °C and 171 °C.

Advantages:

EPP is a wonderful bouncy foam. Great for beginner planes and anything to do with something that possibly involves a not so gentle landing.

EPP is very similar to EPS however it does not crumble or shatter. It is a lot more resistant to damage than other foams.

EPP is very tolerant to most glues including CA which normally eats other foams.

Disadvantages:

It can rip but it will take a fair amount of abuse before it does. Its finish is also not very smooth so if you are planning to build something scale you would need to be aware of this effect.

Polypropylene is liable to chain degradation from exposure to heat and UV radiation such as that present in sunlight.

Handling:

EPP can be cut with a normal knife or hotwire. Beware - the fumes from cutting it with hotwire should not be inhaled. Keep a few windows open if you chose to cut with this method.

Suppliers:

EPP can be found a various hobby shops in NZ. Or you can get your EPP custom CNC cut by Phlatkits