How to tell the quality of ABS plastic

　　The core methods for distinguishing high-quality ABS plastic from inferior grades include examining the appearance—specifically its color and uniformity—as well as testing its physical properties, such as impact resistance and heat tolerance. Additionally, chemical reactivity tests can be conducted (e.g., whether it streaks when wiped with ethyl acetate), and combustion characteristics can be analyzed (noting flame color and the nature of any remaining residue).

　　Visual Inspection

　　Color and Gloss: High-quality ABS typically appears in light yellow, off-white, or ivory tones, with even coloring and a highly glossy surface. In contrast, inferior products may exhibit color variations, blemishes, or a hazy, cloudy appearance.

　　Transparency and Particles: Semi-transparent particles are a normal feature; however, if the particles appear cloudy or contain impurities, it may indicate the presence of recycled material.

　　Physical Performance Testing

　　Impact Resistance: When struck by a heavy object, the high-quality ABS material resists cracking easily (with high-impact-grade strength reaching 20–30 kJ/m²).

　　Heat Resistance: When heated to 90–100°C, high-quality ABS exhibits only slight deformation, while inferior products tend to soften or warp easily.

　　Hardness: A Shore D hardness value of 80–90 falls within the normal range; values higher than this may indicate an excessive amount of filler material (such as talc), which could compromise toughness.

　　Chemistry and Combustion Testing

　　Ethyl acetate wiping: High-quality ABS leaves no lint after wiping, while inferior products may dissolve or become sticky.

　　Combustion characteristics: The flame is yellow with black smoke, self-extinguishes when removed from the heat source, and leaves behind hard, solid particles. If the burning is rapid, accompanied by dripping or a pungent odor (rather than a mild, sweet scent), the product is of inferior quality.