ABS exhibits a balance of mechanical properties that make it highly desirable for various applications. It combines toughness, impact resistance, and rigidity, allowing it to withstand mechanical stresses and impacts without breaking or deforming easily. This makes ABS suitable for applications where durability and structural integrity are essential. ABS has good thermal stability, meaning it can withstand a wide range of temperatures without significant degradation. It retains its mechanical properties even at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for applications that involve exposure to heat or temperature variations.

ABS offers good resistance to a variety of chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and oils. This Chemical resistance allows ABS to be used in applications where contact with different substances is expected, such as pipes, fittings, and chemical storage tanks. ABS has excellent electrical insulation properties, making it suitable for applications where electrical conductivity needs to be minimized or electrical insulation is required. It is commonly used in electrical enclosures, connectors, and insulating components. ABS is generally more affordable compared to other engineering thermoplastics, making it a cost-effective choice for many applications. Its combination of desirable properties, availability, and competitive pricing contributes to its widespread use in various industries.

ABS is extensively used in the automotive sector for both interior and exterior components. It is used for manufacturing dashboard parts, door panels, trims, grilles, bumpers, wheel covers, and interior consoles. Its impact resistance, rigidity, and ability to be molded into complex shapes make it suitable for automotive applications. ABS is widely employed in consumer electronics due to its electrical insulation properties, impact resistance, and ease of processing. It is used for manufacturing computer and laptop housings, keyboards, mouse devices, game controllers, TV remote controls, and phone cases.

ABS is one of the commonly used materials in 3D printing. Its good impact resistance, durability, and machinability make it suitable for creating functional prototypes, mechanical parts, and various consumer products using additive manufacturing techniques. ABS plastic is one of the inexpensive thermoplastic plastics that has a wide range of applications in industry due to its balanced thermal, chemical and mechanical properties. The main application of ABS is in the manufacture of car body parts and the automotive industry. Other applications include the following:

• Manufacturing car body parts including dashboard, door covers, car interior parts, seat belts, car bumpers and wheel covers
• Production of injectable parts such as Lego (children's toys)
• Build a phone
• Production of home appliances such as refrigerators
• Production of hand tools for power tools
• Build a computer body
• Production of cryogenic insulation
• Plating industry

What are the disadvantages of ABS plastic?

• Flame sensitivity
• Opacity
• Change color and properties against sunlight

Although ABS has its drawbacks, it can be overcome by alloying it with other materials. For example, by alloying it with PVC, ABS can be reduced to flame sensitivity, making it slow-burning as well as vulnerable. To solve the problem of opaque ABS, it can be alloyed with poly-methyl methacrylate to achieve ABS.

ABS is relatively easy to process using various manufacturing techniques, including injection molding, extrusion, and 3D printing. Its low melting point and good flow characteristics make it suitable for mass production and complex part geometries. This ease of processing contributes to its widespread use in industries where efficient and cost-effective manufacturing is crucial. ABS can be easily modified or blended with other polymers or additives to enhance specific properties or achieve desired characteristics. This versatility allows for customization and adaptation of ABS to meet specific application requirements.

ABS is commonly utilized in the manufacturing of household appliances. It is used for producing parts such as refrigerator liners, washing machine and dryer components, vacuum cleaner housings, and control panels. ABS is employed in the construction industry for various applications. It is used for manufacturing pipes, fittings, and valves due to its chemical resistance and durability. ABS sheets are used in architectural models, signage, decorative panels, and interior design elements. ABS is a popular choice for manufacturing toys and recreational products due to its impact resistance and ability to be molded into intricate shapes. It is commonly used in building blocks, action figures, puzzles, model kits, and sporting goods.