When choosing plastic sheeting for outdoor commercial or industrial projects, it's crucial to choose one that doesn't degrade under sunlight. Most damage to plastic exposed to the outdoors comes from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. However, UV-resistant plastics will provide sufficient protection against prolonged sunlight exposure. Consider the guide below to learn everything you need to know about these plastic sheeting types. 

What Is UV Radiation and Why Is It Harmful?

Ultraviolet radiation is the electromagnetic energy produced by the sun at a higher frequency than light and a lower frequency than X-ray radiation. UV radiation isn't visible to human eyes but is strong enough to produce lasting damage. For instance, sunburns are caused by UV radiation exposure from being in the sun for too long. 

The radiation can cause a molecular breakdown of unprotected plastic sheeting, fabrics, and electrical devices. The deterioration of molecules in plastics generates free radicals or highly reactive atoms without paired electrons. Free radicals are harmful to plastics because they can trigger damaging reactions like color changes, degradation, and cracks. 

What Is UV-Resistant Plastic?

Unlike other plastics, UV-resistant plastic sheeting does not react to the sun's ultraviolet radiation. These materials won't develop stress cracks, bleach, or yellowing under constant sunlight. They also won't become brittle or lose their strength and elasticity. 

What Are Types of UV-Resistant Plastics?

Acrylic is one of the most widely used UV-resistant plastics. Otherwise known as Polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA, acrylic offers excellent UV protection, strength, and durability. People often use acrylic for outdoor commercial signage, colored lenses, rental displays, and light fixtures. 

Polycarbonate is another UV-resistant plastic. It's suitable for heavy-duty applications like bulletproof glass, safety windows, and shatterproof sunglasses due to its strength. This material is 200 times stronger than glass and has good clarity. 

HDPE plastics or high-density polyethylene is an ethylene thermoplastic that manufacturers make by putting petroleum under intense heat and pressure. Like acrylic, HDPE is a popular UV-resistant plastic because it can be easily molded into any shape with heat. It's also inexpensive to produce, so it's often used to make outdoor furniture, toys, and bottles.

Sandhill Plastics is a leading manufacturer of high-quality HDPE plastics in Kearney, NE. Their UV-resistant plastic sheeting consists of 100% recycled plastic to conserve natural resources. This plastics manufacturing plant creates custom HDPE sheets for construction, industrial, agricultural, and personal purposes. Call (308) 236-5025 or visit them online to learn more about their products.