Plastics are most commonly produced and sold in pellet form due to the superior handling characteristics of pellets in downstream applications. From the moment the polymer is pelletized from its molten state, the pellets or granules undergo a series of handling steps as they move from the producer to the consumer. For instance, post-pelletization steps include:... http://www.che.com/processing_and_handling/engineering_materials/Measuring-Dust-and-Fines-In-Polymer-Pellets_5028.html
One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating a specialty metal for use in valves, fittings and instrumentation is its corrosion resistance or corrosion rate of the metal in the target media. Each material discussed here has its own niche, and depending on the processing environment and the needs of the application, the metal’s strengths and weaknesses may or may not be suitable.... http://www.che.com/processing_and_handling/engineering_materials/Specialty-Metals_4813.html