What is ISO 21306?

ISO 21306 is a multi-part international standard titled:

“Plastics — Unplasticized polyolefin (PE and PP) materials for Moulding and extrusion.”

It provides a designation system and test methodology to classify and assess:

  1. Polyethylene (PE) materials
  2. Polypropylene (PP) materials
  3. Polyolefin copolymers and blends

The standard covers unplasticized thermoplastic materials used in processes such as injection Moulding, extrusion, film blowing, and sheet manufacturing.

ISO 21306 is composed of 3 main parts:

  1. ISO 21306-1:2022
  2. Designation system and basis for specifications
  3. Defines how PE and PP materials are named and classified based on properties such as melt flow rate, density, and additive content.
  4. ISO 21306-2:2022
  5. Preparation of test specimens and determination of properties
  6. Specifies how to prepare and test materials for mechanical, thermal, and other physical properties.
  7. ISO 21306-3:2022
  8. Sampling and testing
  9. Outlines procedures for sampling materials and verifying conformity to classification standards.

This standard replaces multiple regional standards (e.g., ISO 1872-1, ISO 19069-1), creating a globally harmonized framework for the plastics industry.

Why is ISO 21306 important?

Polyolefins like PE and PP are ubiquitous in modern manufacturing, but their performance varies significantly based on molecular structure, additives, and processing. Without a consistent classification system, material quality can vary, resulting in product failure, non-compliance, or supplier confusion.

ISO 21306 solves this by:

  1. Offering a universal language for PE/PP materials
  2. Supporting global trade and supply chain integration
  3. Ensuring reliable material performance across applications
  4. Enabling product standardization and certification

It is essential for manufacturers, resin suppliers, designers, and procurement teams involved in polymer-based products and components.

What are the benefits of ISO 21306?

Implementing ISO 21306 provides tangible technical and operational advantages:

  1. Unified Material Classification: Simplifies procurement and supplier communication
  2. Standardized Testing Methods: Ensures accurate material property verification
  3. Enhanced Quality Control: Assures performance and consistency across batches
  4. Globally Recognized Framework: Eases international compliance and trade
  5. Replaces Legacy Standards: Aligns multiple old standards into one coherent system


What kind of businesses can benefit from ISO 21306?

By adopting ISO 21306, your organization can realize several strategic business benefits:

  1. Better Supplier Coordination

         Clearly classify and verify materials during sourcing and quality inspection.

  1. Reduced Production Errors

             Avoid mismatches and compatibility issues by using materials verified through standardized testing.

  1. Improved Product Quality

          Consistent material properties lead to higher quality and reliability in finished goods.

  1. Faster Market Approvals

          Use ISO-aligned specifications for easier approvals in regulated markets or third-party certifications.

  1. Support for Innovation

          Material scientists and R&D teams can benchmark new formulations against standardized properties.

  1. Global Compliance & Export-Readiness

          ISO 21306 helps businesses meet documentation and material classification requirements in international markets.


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