FAQ’s

A polyolefin is a type of polymer produced from a simple olefin as a monomer. For example, polyethylene is the polyolefin produced by polymerizing the olefin ethylene. Polypropylene is another common polyolefin which is made from the olefin propylene.

Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) make up over half of the +150 million metric tons of thermoplastics demanded worldwide (with PE accounting for nearly two-thirds of all POs), and both plastics are acceptably safe.

Thermoplastic olefin (TPO), thermoplastic polyolefin or olefinic thermoplasticelastomers refer to polymer/filler blends usually consisting of some fraction of athermoplastic, an elastomer or rubber, and usually a filler- TPO is used extensively in the automotive industry.

There are no harmful chemicals, additives or by products that can be absorbed by the contents and therefore consumed by the user of the packaging. Polyolefins are extremely safe in contact with food. Polyolefins are safe to use at ambient temperatures.

Polyolefin raw materials are cost-effective. Their densities are the lowest of all plastics – meaning more products per kilogram of material. Polyolefins are successfully recycled into new plastic products. Polyolefins recycling rates can increase if consumers separate their recyclables from the rest of their waste.

HDPE stands for high density polyethylene which is an exceptionally durable plastic. Mostly known for it’s strength to density ratio and it is resistant to all types of weather conditions such as rain, ice, snow and salt.

Polypropylene is a popular choice among those seeking high temperature resistance, high corrosion resistance and excellent tensile strength. Polypropylene sheet stands up very well to heat and wear, while proving exceptional performance in applications such as structural tanks for chemicals, machine parts, cutting boards etc.

HMWPE is a High Molecular Weight Polyethylene sheet. It boasts excellent impact strength & stress crack resistance and is more economical than standard UHMW. It is a top pick for wear applications and machined parts.

Our plastic sheet is available with a UV inhibitor which expands the life of the product for outdoor applications.

Just simply use lukewarm water and soap with a soft cloth, or sponge. We do not recommend any abrasive cleaners, or materials which can scratch or scuff the finish.

Due to the durability of the material it will never need painting, staining or sealing. The colour penetrates all the way through the material.

Plastic sheet cuts easily with any type of saw such as circular, panel saws or CNC Router.

Yes, as long as you provide a DXF file with your drawing we can custom cut any project.

At Libby we frequently are asked how to apply and use adhesives, paint with HDPE, PP and HMW.  Generally, bonding polyolefin with adhesives or paint does not result in a permanent or structural bond, like mechanical fasteners or welding. Please determine the suitability of using an adhesive or paint yourself with proper testing.

Generally, mechanically fasteners or welding Libby products is recommended. But when an adhesive is necessary you can use a product called Chem-Set™ 6105 Polyolefin Bonder, Lord 7542-AB, or 3M’s Scotch-Weld DP-8005.When painting use paint suitable for Plastic. Libby Mfg. does not represent these products or make any claims about their abilities or accept liability for them.

If you need to use an adhesion or paint process, make sure you have everything you need for the treating.

-A sheet of 120 grit sandpaper.

-cleaning solvent such as Acetone or Alcohol, and a propane torch

-First, lightly sand the Libby HQ surfaces to be bonded with 120 grit sandpaper. Clean the surface with a solvent. Allow solvent to dry. Remove solvent and other flammable liquids and materials away from work area.

-Operate your propane torch as per instructions.

-Work in a safe, well-ventilated area. Hold the torch so the flame is approximately 1-2 inches away and the blue, oxidizing portion of the flame is on the Libby HQ surface to be bonded. Pass the flame over the surface at a rate of approx. 12 inches per three seconds.

-Total time the material should be exposed to the flame should be 1-2 seconds.

-Exposure should not deform or melt the plastic. You may see overclouding effect as the flame passes across the surface.

-Before proceeding, make sure to let the plastic cool.

-Test the effectiveness of your flame treatment of the surface by wetting it with water.

-If the water beads up like on the surface of a freshly waxed car, the treatment was not effective. If the water “sheets” or lays flat on the surface, like on an un-waxed car, the treatment was effective and the surface is ready for bonding or painting. If you are unsure if the surface is ready, compare the water’s action on treated area with the untreated area.

-Flame treatment is temporary.  Bonding or painting should be completed within 2 hours after treatment. If longer re-treatment may be required.

-Refer to the adhesive or paint manufactures recommendations when applying.

Note: Flame Treatment may also be a useful method in removing surface scratches on smooth or textured surfaces.

Marine Caulking works well when applying new or replacing old caulking. Before caulking, the surface should be prepared with medium-grit sandpaper, then cleaned with acetone or alcohol. When dry apply caulking as per the caulking manufactures recommendations.