When comparing nylon and polypropylene webbing in terms of strength and durability, nylon webbing generally comes out on top. Nylon webbing is noted for its superior tensile strength, which ranges between 4,200 and 5,500 pounds per 1-inch width, compared to polypropylene's tensile strength of around 600 pounds per inch. This makes nylon webbing much more dependable, particularly for applications requiring high strength and durability, such as dog leashes and climbing harnesses.
Furthermore, nylon's physical properties enhance its performance in various applications. It has excellent chemical resistance, higher impact tolerance, and better abrasion resistance than polypropylene. Nylon's melting temperature is also higher, ranging from 374 to 460°F, indicating its suitability for applications that may involve higher heat.
Polypropylene, on the other hand, has its advantages, such as being waterproof and mildew- and UV-resistant, and it is also noted for being more economical. It is lighter and floats in water, making it suitable for specific applications where these characteristics are desirable. However, regarding sheer strength and durability, nylon's superior tensile strength and resistance to environmental factors make it the stronger choice.
In summary, both materials have unique advantages and applications, but if the primary concern is strength and durability, nylon webbing is stronger and more reliable than polypropylene webbing.