Twin-wall plastic, specifically twin-wall polycarbonate, is an extruded multi-wall polymer product created for applications where its strength, thermally insulative properties, and moderate cost are ideal.Polycarbonate, which is most commonly formed through the reaction of Bisphenol A and Carbonyl Chloride, is an extremely versatile material. It is significantly lighter than glass, while managing to be stronger, more flexible, and more impact resistant. Twin-wall polycarbonate is used most commonly for green houses, where it can support itself in a structurally sound configuration, limit the amount of UV light due to its nominal translucence, and can withstand the rigors of daily abuse in an outdoor environment. The stagnant air in the cellular space between sheets provides insulation, and additional cell layers can be extruded to enhance insulative properties at the cost of light transmission.
Similar sheets of polypropylene, PET, and HDPE are usually called corrugated plastic.
Twinwall plastic most commonly refers to two exterior plastic sheets that are connected with a plastic support layer to create parallel channels. This design adds both impact toughness and the ability to support weight. Twinwall plastic may also be used to describe a pipe that has a smooth interior with exterior air filled ridges. The outside ridges add durability to the piping while the smooth interior allows the desired contents to flow efficiently. The hollow ribs also create insulation for the piping.
Twinwall plastic can refer to several different extruded polymers including:
Structure
Polycarbonates received their name because they are polymers containing carbonate groups (–O–(C=O)–O–). Most polycarbonates of commercial interest are derived from rigid monomers. A balance of useful features including temperature resistance, impact resistance and optical properties position polycarbonates between commodity plastics and engineering plastics.