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Similar to polyethylene and polypropylene, polypropylene copolymer is classified as a polyolefin and is a high molecular weight hydrocarbon. PPCO is an essentially linear copolymer with repeating sequences of ethylene and propylene and combines some of the advantages of both polymers.

PPCO is autoclavable, offering most of the high temperature performance of polypropylene and some of the low temperature strength and flexibility of polyethylene. Like all polyolefins, PPCO is non-toxic, non-polluting and lighter than water. PPCO is milky white translucent in appearance.

PPCO easily withstands exposure to almost any chemical at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Strong oxidizing agents will eventually cause embrittlement. PPCO can be damaged by prolonged exposure to UV light.

Because of its protective elastic properties, impact resistance and low cost, labware made from PPCO is an excellent alternative to borosilicate glassware, which is more likely to break and cause personal injury or loss of research materials. PPCO labware plays an important role in laboratory safety programs and is increasing in use worldwide.

Polypropylene copolymer is used to make a wide variety of Nalgene labware including bottles, beakers, graduated cylinders, Erlenmeyer flasks, centrifuge tubes and many other items where autoclavability and long-term chemical compatibility are key requirements. You will find a wide variety of Nalgene PPCO bottles to choose from. Use the Nalgene Bottle and Carboy Selection Guide to quickly find the bottle shape, size and packaging configuration you are looking for.