FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) vs PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer): 0% composition overlap. Significantly different materials serving different application areas.
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) vs PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate)
Flame retardant woven fiberglass cloth with epoxy resin binder — the worldwide standard substrate material for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Designated NEMA grade FR-4 and IPC-4101. Good mechanical strength, dimensional stability and electrical insulation up to 130°C (Tg). Dielectric constant 4.2–4.7 at 1 MHz. Self-extinguishing (UL94 V-0). Used for single/multilayer PCBs, electrical insulation boards, structural composites in electronics, test fixtures and jigs. Available in thicknesses 0.1–50 mm.
PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer)
Polypropylene copolymer (random or block) — better impact resistance at low temperatures than PP homopolymer (PP-H). Random copolymer: excellent clarity for packaging. Block copolymer: high impact for automotive bumpers, containers, and household appliances. Trade names: Moplen (LyondellBasell), Hostalen (LyondellBasell). THE automotive interior/exterior polymer alongside ABS.
| FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) | PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | — | — |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | IPC-4101 | ISO 1133 |
Mechanical properties
| Property | FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) | PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexural Strength | 380–480 | — | MPa |
| Tensile Strength | 280–340 | — | MPa |
| Compressive Strength | 350–420 | — | MPa |
Compatibility Assessment
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer) have significantly different compositions (0% overlap). These materials are not interchangeable and serve different application areas.
Automated assessment based on composition analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) the same as PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer)?
FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer) have a 0% composition overlap. They are generally not directly interchangeable.
Can I replace FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) with PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (0% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) and PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. FR-4 (Glass Epoxy Laminate) is a Polymers grade, while PP-C (Polypropylene Copolymer) is a Polymers grade.
View full data for each material:
Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
All data is for reference only. Equivalents indicate similarity, not identity. Always verify against the applicable specification for safety-critical applications. materialref.com accepts no liability for decisions based on this data.