Plastic Sheets Key Terms

Learn about popular types of plastic sheets before you buy

By Dianne Borgeson

Plastic sheeting is the result of plastic extrusion, a manufacturing process that melts and deforms raw plastic into a variety of plastic sheet products for applications in many industries. As a less expensive alternative to metal, plastic sheeting is used in everything from packaging food, medical supplies and home construction to end-user applications like groceries, garbage bags and battery cases. Review some of the following key terms to boost your product knowledge regarding types of plastic sheeting.

Thermoplastics

Thermoplastics are polymers that, when heated, melt to a liquid state and then harden to a glass-like state when frozen or cooled. Since they mold so easily, they have an infinite number of applications; thermoplastic products include acrylic glass, Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) and polyolefin. Thermoplastics are used to make everything from garbage bags and food storage items to irrigation drip systems.
Try: wiseGEEK offers a detailed definition of thermoplastics. For a detailed list of all thermoplastic types, view eFunda's website.

Acrylic

A type of thermoplastic, acrylic is a clear, weather- and shatter-resistant noncrystaline plastic. Acrylic plastic sheeting is used in a variety of products, including shower doors, airplane windshields, skylights and more.
Try: View the definition of acrylics, along with its various uses at eNotes.com.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is an opaque thermoplastic used to protect a variety of products from exposure to light, heat and oxygen. Since HDPE is chemically non-reactive and durable, it has many applications; you can find it in liners under landfills to help prevent contamination from soil and groundwater, chemical and fuel storage systems, and as wood composite plastic that's found in flooring, furniture, fencing and landscaping materials. More common items stored in this type of plastic include food products like milk and juice, and household items like oil, shampoo, motor oil and antifreeze.
Try: MedicineNet offers a brief definition of HDPE along with various products which use this plastic sheeting.

Polycarbonate

One of the most natural among all thermoplastics, polycarbonate is clear and translucent, heat-resistant up to 145 degrees, and is not affected by acid and water substances. It's mainly used in engineering applications like insulating electrical parts, safety helmets, light globes and computer parts, and for use in components for medical and pharmaceutical apparatus as well.
Try: Polymer Technology and Services provides an in-depth description on polycarbonates, along with a list of more application uses.

Corrugated plastic

Corrugated plastic is similar to corrugated cardboard but more durable and long-lasting. Corrugated plastic sheets are found in applications including graphic arts, signs and packaging, as well as for photographic lighting reflectors, greenhouse panels, light diffusers and as shades for delicate plants and aquatics.
Try: Champion Box Company offers a brief definition of corrugated plastic and its application uses.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a flexible, strong, long-lasting plastic material that is resistant to humidity and moisture. Because of its flexible and durable nature, it's ideal for applications in multiple industries, including the production of medical supplies, home construction (vinyl siding and floors), automotive parts, signage and more. Since it's mostly composed from common salt, a renewable resource, it's also environmentally friendly and therefore appealing to many "green-conscious" businesses.
Try: Review Geno Jezek's site for a detailed description of vinyl and its many application uses.