Corrugated Plastics and Their Uses
There are two primary types of corrugated plastic. Corrugated plastic sheets typically comprise what appear to be three layers, two flat sheets and a ribbed center layer. The truth of the matter is; there are really just two layers that are often referred to as twinwall plastic. Alternately, corrugated plastic can also be used to describe sheets of plastic which are wave-like in their profile and are possibly reinforced with chopped glass fiber. This style is single layer and primarily used for the roofing of garages and latrines, but savvy gardeners may find the sheets a viable option for building a shed or a greenhouse. In this review, we will take a look at the twinwall version of corrugated plastic, also called corrugated plastic board or fluted plastic board.
How do they produce corrugated plastic sheets?
Materials used in the production of durable corrugated plastic sheets include:
- Polyethylene.
- Polypropylene.
- Versatile thermoplastics.
The components polypropylene has a neutral pH and is resistant to most chemical spills, normal temperature variances, but can be upgraded to provide a number of other resistances such as:
- UV.
- Anti-static.
- Fire resistance.
Polycarbonate may also be used in corrugated plastic production, but it is an infinitely less versatile type of plastic, particularly in respect to its low tolerance against impact and brittleness. PET and PVC may also make the cut when manufacturing sheets.
In the primary manufacturing method, the corrugated plastic sheet is extruded. This means it is a molten plastic that is pumped through a framework that provides the sheet with a profile. The frame or die is typically 1 – 3 meters wide, delivering a plastic material with a thickness of up to 25 millimeters. Either mono or co-extrusion molding techniques are used depending on the profile that is required.
Some advantages and potential uses for corrugated plastics.
In buildings:
Suppliers of corrugated plastics explain that it is an ideal material for shutters in areas that experience strong summer storms. It is 200 times stronger than glass; five times lighter than plywood and the plastic does not require regular painting to maintain its color. Corrugated plastic also will not rot.
Translucent polycarbonate corrugated plastic sheets can also be used for the roof in a sun room where its light weight nature, rigidity and insulating properties are ideal. When used for the roof of a sun room, the issue of low impact resistance becomes less of a problem. Corrugated plastic can also be used to build small structures such as greenhouses, in which its air core gives you a useful insulating layer for temperature maintenance.
In packaging:
Impact resistant, flexible and versatile, corrugated polypropylene is ideal for packaging agricultural or non-agricultural goods from point A to point B. Corrugated plastic packaging is more eco-friendly than a lot of molded containers that are typically not recycled. The material can also be:
- Stapled.
- Stitched.
- Cut to shape.
In signage:
Durable corrugated plastic is available in a number of different colors, can be readily printed on using UV resistant ink and can be easily affixed to a surface using a variety of methods. These factors coupled with the light weight nature of the plastic make it a great option for signage.
