Acrylonitrile copolymer resins

Uses

Polyacrylonitrile cannot be melt processed because extensive decomposition occurs before any appreciable flow takes place. Various copolymers in which acrylonitrile is the major component are, however, melt-processable and several have been produced commercially. Such copolymers are commonly referred to as nitrile resins. The main reason for the development of these copolymers was their low gas permeability and carbonated-beverage containers represented a large potential market. However, concern about the carcinogenicity of residual acrylonitrile has rendered uncertain the future use of nitrile resins as containers for foodstuffs.
In addition to their outstanding gas-barrier properties, nitrile resins have good resistance to most organic solvents (but not acetone and methyl ethyl ketone) and acids and bases. Nitrile resins may be melt-processed by all the usual methods, e.g. injection moulding, blow moulding and sheet extrusion. Applications include containers for agricultural, automotive and household products.