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In the versatile world of plastic sheets, there is not just one material suitable for all projects. At Sheet Plastics, our panels are sourced from the most popular chemical compounds to form a multitude of plastic sheets for any project.

In this article, we will discuss the many advantages and disadvantages of different plastic sheets, and their usage across different applications.

Let’s dive into our diverse range of products, shall we?

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Plastic Sheets

Polycarbonate Plastic Sheets

 

This material is one of the most popular options for plastic sheets. It’s a great all-rounder sheet suitable for multiple applications, making it easy to use if you have leftovers. However, polycarbonate plastic sheets are most commonly used for secondary glazing due to their high impact resistance and transparency.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

High impact resistance

Prone to scratching without proper maintenance

Secondary glazing

Sound insulation

Yellows due to sunlight

Roofing

Lightweight

Higher cost

Garden shed windows

Electrical insulation

Not as chemically resistant

Canopies

Weather resistance

More prone to damage

Signage

HIPS Plastic Sheets

We’re all aware of the protective layer that keeps our parcel safe during transit, but this material has another purpose you may not know. HIPS plastic sheets are incredibly lightweight and versatile, despite their own fragile state. They are commonly used to shape and protect mirrors and windows, but what else do they have to offer?

Advantages Disadvantages Application
Impact resistance  Brittle Insulation
Lightweight  Prone to scratching without proper maintenance Packaging
Versatile Limited high-temperature applications Model making
Ease of fabrication Poor UV resistance Signage
Cost-effective Difficult to recycle Arts and crafts

Polypropylene Sheets

You may recognise this material as the sturdy box holding your folders or even being the folder itself. Polypropylene sheets are extremely durable despite their flexibility. While they are most commonly used in packaging, they are also used in automotive components due to their chemical resistance.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

Chemical resistance

Yellows due to sunlight

Screen printing

Lightweight

Lower durability

Sublimation printing

Moisture resistance

Requires extra adhesives

Packaging

Fatigue resistance

Limited high-temperature applications

Manufacturing boxes

Cost-effective

Not as stiff

Stationery and binders

PETG Sheets (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

Highly durable and tough, PETG sheets, also known as polyethylene terephthalate glycol, have excellent transparency making them suitable for a variety of applications. You have likely seen these plastic sheets all around you in shopping centres, restaurants, and industry settings, and these benefits will tell you why.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

Durability

Prone to scratching without proper maintenance

Secondary glazing

Impact resistance

Higher cost

Sneeze screens

Recyclable

Limited high-temperature applications

Splashbacks

UV resistance

Yellows over time

Displays

Chemical resistance

Not as resistant in certain environmental conditions

Machine Guard

Foam PVC Sheets

Sometimes you just want a block-colour plastic sheet that still protects you from other people but offers more privacy. Commonly seen in commercial settings, foam PVC sheets thrive in colder environments, keeping you warm during low temperatures. They are also non-porous, deterring harmful bacteria from entering the material and reaching you.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

Chemical resistance

Not as resistant in certain environmental conditions

Exhibitions

Lightweight

Releases toxic gases if burned

Cladding

Thermal insulation

Limited high-temperature applications

Splashbacks

Ease of fabrication

Not as stiff

Printing

Moisture resistance

Difficult to recycle

Partitioning

Acetal Sheets

There is no stronger, stiffer sheet than acetal. This highly durable material is extremely versatile, used in the majority of industrial applications. They also flourish in colder climates while still keeping that insulation in low temperatures. Overall, acetal sheets are favoured in the engineering industry for their many benefits.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

Chemical resistance

Sensitive to some acidic conditions

Automotive Industry

Durability

Degradation in some hot water conditions

Textile Industry

Stiffness

Limited high-temperature applications

Mechanical and medical engineering

Electrical insulation

Not as resistant to certain solvents

Electrical industry

Low-friction

Difficult to recycle

Food processing Industry

Aluminium Sheets

If you are looking for a long-lasting material that protects your build, aluminium sheets are for you. They are practically indestructible against harsh weather conditions and shun corrosion for easy maintenance. While there are some concerns about the manufacturing process, you can recycle this form of aluminium.

Advantages Disadvantages Application

Durability

Higher cost

Secondary glazing

Lightweight

Conducts heat and electricity

Roofing

Corrosion resistance

Releases more carbon emissions

Cladding

Recyclable

Deters and disrupts wildlife during mining process

Signage

Weather resistance

Difficult fabrication

Suspended Ceiling

Durable Plastic Sheets Available at Sheet Plastics

We hope this guide gives you a little insight into why we supply the materials we do, and how each product can help with your specific needs. We offer a variety of colours, textures, and finishes if clear panels aren’t for you.

Are you in the process of a DIY project and require some plastic sheets? Whether you want clear polycarbonate plastic sheets for your swimming pool or thermal-efficient polystyrene plastic sheets for your walls, we have a product for you.

Contact our expert team today for a completely bespoke process. Simply let us know what your requirements are or tell us about your project if you’re not sure what you need. Alternatively, we encourage you to look at our samples page for some inspiration.