Corrugated plastic

Corrugated plastic box used as reusable packaging

Corrugated plastic dividers used to pack automotive components

A Velomobile enclosed in corrugated plastic

Corrugated plastic or corriboard – also known under the trade names of Correx, Biplex, Cartonplast, Polyflute, Coroplast, FlutePlast, IntePro, Proplex, Twinplast, Corriflute and Corflute – refers to a wide range of extruded twin-wall plastic-sheet products produced from high-impact polypropylene resin with a similar make-up to corrugated fiberboard. It is a light-weight tough material which can easily be cut with a utility knife. Manufacturers typically offer a wide variety of colors, thicknesses (quite commonly 3, 4, 5 mm), and weight (measured in grams per square meter, or GSM).

Chemically, the sheet is inert, with a neutral pH factor. At regular temperatures most oils, solvents and water have no effect, allowing it to perform under adverse weather conditions or as a product component exposed to harsh chemicals. Standard sheets can be modified with additives, which are melt-blended into the sheet to meet specific needs of the end-user. Special products that require additives include: ultra-violet protection, anti-static, flame retardant, custom colors, corrosive inhibitors, static-dissipative, among others.

Applications

Corrugated plastic is commonly used to erect commercial, political or other types of signs and for constructing plastic containers and reusable packaging. It is widely used in the signwriting industry for making signs for real estate sales, construction sites and promotions.

The last decade has found its increasing use among guinea pig, rabbit, domesticated hedgehog and other small pet enthusiasts as components of DIY cages. Additionally, it is used by members of the remote-controlled aircraft community to build nearly indestructible SPAD model aircraft.

Corrugated plastic is widely used in various industries due to its lightweight, durable, and versatile nature. Some common applications include: Temporary Surface Protection: Corrugated plastic is frequently employed in residential, commercial, and mega yacht settings to protect floors, walls, and other surfaces during new builds, repairs, and remodeling projects. Its durability and ease of installation make it an ideal choice for safeguarding against damage from heavy foot traffic, tools, and construction debris.

Dust Containment: In addition to surface protection, corrugated plastic is also used to create dust containment barriers in construction and remodeling environments. It helps in maintaining clean workspaces and protecting sensitive areas from dust and debris. Companies like Protect X have created a patented service for installing corrugated plastic to prevent accidental damage during construction.

Use of corrugated plastic in welded hollow plastic plate air-to-air heat exchangers. From U.S. patent 4,820,468

At least one manufacturer of air-to-air heat exchangers (used in heat recovery ventilation) uses a fused stack of sheets of this material alternating with spacers made of the same material as the heat-exchange medium. One air stream passes through the corrugated channels in the interior of the sheets, while the other passes between the exterior layers of the stacked sheets.

Recycling

Corrugated plastic is usually made from polypropylene which is capable of being recycled. Resin identification code 5 applies: .

See also

• Packaging
• Plastic recycling

Further reading

• Yam, K. L., Encyclopedia of Packaging Technology, John Wiley & Sons, 2009, ISBN 978-0-470-08704-6.

External links

• Typical Technical Properties of Corrugated Plastic