Polyacetal, Polyoxymethylene (POM)

Polyoxymethylene (POM) appears as an opaque white, rigid thermoplastic with a highly crystalline structure giving it a characteristic waxy feel. Key features include extraordinary dimensional stability, excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, very low coefficient of friction, exceptional fatigue resistance, and good chemical resistance to many solvents. POM is particularly valued in precision engineering applications such as gears, bearings, clips, fasteners, and pump components. 

Alternatives to POM include polyesters, polyamides, and polysulfone resins. Sub-types include homopolymers providing superior mechanical properties and thermal resistance and copolymers offer enhanced stability against thermal degradation and better processability. Recent industry trends show an increased focus on specialized POM grades with enhanced properties like higher impact resistance, improved sliding characteristics (with silicone or PTFE modifications), and medical-grade versions with enhanced purity.