properties of polymer based sheet and film

performance characteristics

• the ability to be scored

• cutting

• folding

• moulding

• transparency

• translucency

• flexibility

• recyclability and/or biodegradability

Foam Board

Two outer layers of card w a foam middle, used for modelling and presentation boards

Advantages

• Lightweight

• Easy to cut and shape

• Can be scored and folded

• Good rigidity

Disadvantages

• Not very durable

• Can be easily dented or crushed

Fluted PP(Polypropylene) Sheet

Extruded sheet w ‘flutes’ or corrugations, used for signs, box construction and display stands

Advantages

• Waterproof

• Lightweight and strong

• Easy to print on

• Good impact resistance

• Bends well along the flutes

Disadvantages

• Can be difficult to fold cleanly

• Not biodegradable

Translucent PP(Polypropylene) Sheets

Tough polymer sheet, used for packaging, stationery and folders

Advantages

• Flexible

• Can be folded and creased

• Water resistant

• Tear resistant

• Good for printing

Disadvantages

• Not fully transparent

• Prone to scratches

Styrofoam

dense, closed cell foam, used for modelling and formers for vacuum forming

Advantages

• Lightweight

• Easy to cut and shape

• Good thermal insulation

Disadvantages

• Brittle and can snap easily

• Not environmentally friendly

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

thin polymer sheet, used for wrapping, packaging, plastic bags

Advantages

• Flexible

• Waterproof

• Can be heat-sealed

• Good chemical resistance

Disadvantages

• Not very strong

• Not biodegradable

Plastazote Foam

closed cell polyethylene foam, used for swimming floats, protective packaging and exercise mats

Advantages

• Impact-resistant, tough

• Flexible

• Lightweight

• Water-resistant

• Good cushioning properties

Disadvantages

• Not biodegradable

• Can be expensive

Cellulose Acetate

used for packaging and photography film

Advantages

• Transparent

• Biodegradable

• Good flexibility

• Can be heat-sealed

Disadvantages

• Not very strong

• Prone to tearing

Polylactide (PLA)

used for biodegradable packaging, food containers, disposable cutlery and 3D printing

Advantages

• Biodegradable

• Can be composted

• Good transparency

• Good strength

Disadvantages

• Not heat-resistant

• More expensive than traditional plastics