ABS is short for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene - a relatively new rigid plastic material. It is a thermoplastic polymer made by polymerization of styrene and acrylonitrile in the presence of polybutadiene. The proportions of individual components may vary.
Properties of ABS plastic
ABS plastic is characterized by extraordinary strength and toughness, high resistance to impacts and pressure shocks (even at low temperatures), resistance to the propagation of cracks and abrasion. It also resists adverse weather effects and UV radiation well. ABS has a very low thermal conductivity, so its additional insulation is not necessary. Thanks to its chemical resistance, the plastic is not affected by salts, on the contrary, concentrated acids, strong alkalis, organic solvents and aromatic hydrocarbons can damage it. ABS is non-absorbent and harmless to health. Styrene gives the plastic a glossy and impermeable surface. Polybutadiene is a rubbery substance and gives ABS elasticity even at low temperatures.
Use of ABS plastic
ABS plastic is used for the production of handles of outdoor knives with a fixed blade as well as handles for knives with a full tang construction and folding knives, it is also used to make very strong and durable cases for these knives, as well as handles of working knives, handles of pliers and multitools, and kitchen knife handles.
However, due to its strength and other excellent useful properties, the material is used in many other areas. Perhaps the most famous use is for children's LEGO-style bricks. But plastic is also used to make pipes for water treatment plants and distribution systems, for air conditioning, in the food industry, to make furniture, to clean the edges of LTD boards (ABS edges), serves as a material for 3D printing and has many other applications.