What is the biggest disadvantage of ABS plastic?

The biggest disadvantage of ABS plastic relates to its brittleness, which is a significant concern in plumbing applications. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is known for its strength and toughness, but under certain conditions, it can become brittle, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or stress. This brittleness can lead to cracks or breaks in the piping system, compromising its integrity and functionality.

While ABS does have certain limitations, such as being less UV resistant than other plastics, the primary drawback in practical applications is its susceptibility to becoming brittle over time or under adverse conditions. Thus, understanding material properties like brittleness is crucial when selecting piping materials for specific plumbing projects.