Plastic Sheet and other Plastic Materials Glossary

ABS – ABS resins are terpolymers of acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. These are a hard, rigid and strong material, even at lower temperatures. In addition to providing good structural integrity, ABS is waterproof and almost unaffected by most inorganic acids and salt.

Acetal – The acetal is a synthetic polymer based on formaldehyde polymerization technology. It is characterized by good mechanical properties, including very good resistance to abrasion making it perfect for machining where dimensonal stability and integrity is critical.

Acrylic – Also known as the trade name Perspex®, acrylic plastic sheet is a polyvalent and strong thermoplastic. Coloured, transparent, opaque or textured, acrylic is perfect for signs, bright banners, marketing collateral, displays, decoration, industrial parts and safety devices.

High Performance Plastics – Mainly used in the high technology areas, high performance plastic sheet is designed for use in specialised applications. They are easy to process and most of them have excellent antibacterial or thermal properties. They are used for mechanical parts and high precision castings as well as electrical and medical components. In addition, materials may be combined with additives in order to improve their resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and radiation.

Nylon – Nylons are thermoplastic polyamides (PA). They have a high tensile strength making them very resistant to impact. Their strength also lends to use in mechanical parts applications.

Polycarbonate – Plastic sheet made from Polycarbonate is thermoplastic and has a high molecular weight. They have exceptional impact strength under a variety of temperatures. Polycarbonate is characterised by a balance of strength and transparency. Also, they provide superior resistance to yellowing.

Polyethylene – Polyethylene plastic sheet is one of the most used thermoplastic polymers. White or coloured, it is available in a variety of grades and formulations and characterised by toughness, excellent chemical resistance and low coefficient of friction. Polyethylene has low moisture absorption and is commonly used in tank fabrication.

Polypropylene – Polypropylene is a non-contaminant translucent white thermoplastic. With its rigid and glossy surface, polypropylene is approved for direct food contact and is suited for environments where bacteria containment is important.

Polyurethane – In the family of elastomers, polyurethane is a “flexible” polymer that can support very large degrees of flex to return quickly and almost completely in its original shape. Because of this, Polyurethane has a high impact and tear resistance.

PVC / CPCV – PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) and CPVC (Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) are inexpensive and very versatile thermoplastics. These two polymers are similar in their composition but differ when it comes to temperature resistance and operating range.

Recycled Plastics – Today recycling makes remarkable progress and allows among others to offer recycled and plastic products made from post-consumer plastic materials. These green products are good for the environment and stand out as a strategic choice for eco-friendly businesses where the chemical makeup of the plastic is of lesser importance.

UHMW – UHMW are sliding materials that offer great abrasion and compression resistance. Relatively malleable, they are great for electrical insulation and they can be welded by thermoplastic welding processes. Several finishes and compounds are available including natural (white), static dissipative, UV resistant, self-lubricating, recycled and high temperature resistant.

Vinyls – Vinyl, industrial fabrics and banners are perfect for sign and digital printing. A wide range of colours, sizes and finishes are available.

Other – Some other types of plastic sheet and materials include; Fluoropolymers, PETG, and Fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP).