Polypropylene (PP) Sheets

What is polypropylene plastic and what is it used for?

Essentially, white polypropylene is a type of plastic that’s known for it’s high durability and chemical resistance. Polypropylene or PP sheet is multi-functional - and the benefits listed above make them suitable for a range of different commercial applications.

For example, the high durability and chemical resistance of PP plastic makes it a popular industrial component in chemical manufacturing and engineering, especially. 

Beyond these industries in general, you’ll also find that polypro sheet is often used for wall cladding in hygiene rooms used for food storage and production. That’s because it has high levels of water-absorption and can deal with a wide range of temperatures. 

Polypropylene plastic is not uncommon in prosthetic materials, either - which shows the extent to which businesses can rely on this product to perform to a consistent industrial standard. 
 

How do you cut polypropylene sheets?

Cutting polypropylene sheets into straight lines is a very straightforward task provided you use the correct tool for the job (of which there are a few possibilities). 

A serrated fine-toothed saw should do the trick in most cases. Always the clamp the plastic into a static position when sawing along a pre-marked line. 

The saw you use is up to you. Sometimes, a circular saw is a safer option - pausing between cuts if you can (as prolonged sawing can generate frictional heat and melt the plastic). 

The process of cutting can be completed in seconds - with minimal mess to contend with. 
 

Where to get polypropylene sheets

Just because it is typically used for manufacturing applications - don’t just assume that it’s difficult to purchase online. 

At The Plastic People, we pride ourselves on supplying PP plastic material cut to the exact size or shape required. 

For versitile rigid plastic sheet material, explore our range of polypropylene sheets below. We supply natural, white and black sheets to suit a variety of different purposes. 

Simply use our calculator above to get a cut to size or cut to shape quote today.
 

Polypropylene benefits

Is polypropylene sheet flexible?

 
Polypropylene sheeting can vary in flexibility depending on its thickness, formulation, and intended use. Generally, polypro plastic sheets tend to be more rigid compared to some other plastics like polyethylene. Here's a summary of the flexibility of polypropylene sheeting:
 

• Thin Sheets - Thin sheets, typically ranging from 0.5mm to 2mm in thickness, can be relatively flexible.
• Thicker Sheets - Thicker sheets, such as those above 2mm, tend to be more rigid and less flexible. They are often used in structural components or industrial applications.
• Additives and Formulation - The flexibility of polypropylene sheets can also be influenced by additives and specific formulations used during manufacturing.
• Temperature - Like many plastics, polypropylene can become more pliable when heated and more rigid when cooled.

Whilst polypropylene sheeting tends to be less flexible than some other plastics like polyethylene, it can still exhibit a degree of flexibility, especially in thinner gauges or with specific formulations designed for flexibility.
 
 

Can polypropylene be reshaped with heat?

 
Yes, polypropylene can be reshaped using heat, a process known as thermoforming. Thermoforming involves heating the sheet until it becomes pliable, and then forming it into the desired shape using a mould or by hand. Once the polypropylene cools and solidifies, it retains the new shape.
However, it's important to note that while polypropylene can be reshaped with heat, there are limits to the extent of reshaping achievable without causing damage. Additionally, the specific process involved, including heating temperature, heating time, and cooling rate, must be carefully controlled to ensure consistent results and minimise defects in the formed parts.