Have questions on one of our plastics? We answer your most frequently asked questions and give you the resources needed to make the most of your plastics.

 
Acrylic

Acrylic, also known as Plexiglass, is a versatile plastic material with a variety of purposes and benefits, available in a spectrum of colors and opacities. >>>

Acrylic has a number of characteristics, which make it an ideal plastic to use including it’s transparency, impact resistance, and durability. >>>

Acrylic is commonly used inside of point of purchase displays, signage, furniture, aquariums, picture frames, roof windows, and DIY projects. >>>

Acrylic plastic represents a family of petroleum-based thermoplastics made from natural gas. It should be noted that acrylic is plastic; however, not all plastic is acrylic. >>>

Acrylic and Polycarbonate has a number of similarities but also key differences. Polycarbonate is stronger while acrylic is more transparent. >>>

Removing surface scratches from acrylic only requires a few simple tools including acrylic cleaner, sandpaper, a microfiber cloth and water. >>>

The recommended way to cut acrylic is with a high-quality table saw, the simplest and most beginner-friendly way to cut plexiglass is by using a scoring tool. >>>

 
Polycarbonate

Polycarbonates are virtually unbreakable plastics that are available in transparent and opaque sheets. >>>

Polycarbonate is highly impact resistant, making it an ideal choice when security or strength are required. >>>

Polycarbonate sheets and panels will slowly change color and start to yellow if it is directly exposed to UV rays for a very long time. >>>

For the most thorough cleaning, use Novus #1 cleaner and a soft, microfiber cloth. For a simple, routine cleaning, polycarbonate panels should be cleaned using a mild soap, lukewarm water and a soft cloth. >>>

Regular solvents won’t adhere to polycarbonate. Thankfully, there are many effective methods for gluing, or fusing, polycarbonate plastic. >>>

Polycarbonate blocks harmful UV rays, is lightweight, transparent, and durable, making it ideal for roofing. >>>

Polycarbonate is an extremely good material for constructing a greenhouse. Less heat is lost with polycarbonate sheets than its glass alternative. >>>

 
HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)

High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE) is a thermoplastic polymer made from petroleum and is one of the most versatile plastic materials around. >>>

HDPE is formed through a process known as cracking, which involves applying intense heat to petroleum within a controlled environment. >>>

HDPE plastic has many applications such as cutting boards, cabinets, boating, packaging, and more. >>>

HDPE sheets have high corrosion resistance, friction resistance, low water absorption, are food safe, and sustainable. >>>

HDPE Sheets are FDA compliant, making them a popular choice in commercial kitchens. >>>

HDPE is great for boating. HDPE is corrosion, marine growth and high impact resistant, which is perfect for dealing with natural roughness and weathering that comes with the sea. >>>

 
Other Plastics

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a thermoplastic polyester that provides significant chemical resistance, durability, and excellent formability for manufacturing. >>>

Poly (methyl methacrylate) is the scientific name for the synthetic polymer commonly known as acrylic, acrylic glass, and plexiglass. >>>

Expanded PVC is lightweight and rigid plastic foam board. It’s highly resistant to moisture and certain chemicals, making it easy to manipulate. >>>

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), often referred to as styrene, is an easily machined and fabricated impact-resistant, versatile, and economical plastic. >>>

As a plastic from the HDPE family, Designboard combines all the benefits of high-density plastic with the aesthetic beauty of wood and metal. >>>

Marine Board, also known as Marine Grade HDPE, Sea Board, Star Board, Marine Plywood, and Marine Lumber, is specially treated high density polyethylene, or HDPE. >>>