| Technical Data |
| Mechanical Properties/Test Method |
Typical Value |
| Specific Gravity-ASTM D792-66 |
.9090 |
| Density-ASTM D792-66 |
55-60 (lbs./cu.ft.) |
| Initial Compression Modulus- ASTM D695 |
159,110 (lbs./in.in.) |
| Modulus-ASTM D695-85 |
555(MPa) |
| Specific Modulus-ASTM D695-85 |
610(Mpa) |
| Yield Strength-ASTM D695-85 |
11.1(MPa) |
| Ultimate Strength-ASTM D695-85 |
14.1(MPa) |
| Specific Strength-ATSM D695-85 |
15.5(MPa*cm^3/9) |
| Flexural Strength-ATSM D790 |
173,439(lbs./in.*in) |
BOUYANCY/DENSITY/MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Recycled Plastic Lumber has a density of .79, therefore it will float on water. The
product tends not to absorb water and will maintain its buoyancy over time.
Recycled Plastic Lumber has greater flexibility than wood. This makes the
product more impact resistant than wood, but requires more support when installed in a
load carrying application. In a typical deck or dock application, supports should be
placed 12" on center for minimum deflection. For heavy load bearing applications
additional support may be necessary.
| Density |
(LB/cu in) |
.024/.025 |
ASTM D792 |
| Flexural Modulus |
(PSI) |
93,000 102,500 |
ASTM D790 |
| Tensile Strength |
(PSI) |
2550 |
ASTM D638 |
| Compressive Yield |
(PSI) |
3205 |
ASTM D695 @.4 |
| Sheer Strength |
(PSI) |
2101 |
ASTM D732 (80) |
| Thermal Exp/Coef. |
(in/in/°F) |
.00007 |
ASTM D696 |
| Hardness |
64/65 |
Shore D |
|
Average Weight 11.0 11.5 GR/cu in
THERMAL EXPANSION
Recycled Plastic Lumber will expand and contract over a wide temperature
range. On standard applications, expansion/contraction of .25" (6.35 mm) per 96"
(243.8 cm) length should be incorporated into design considerations. Thermal expansion
occurs lengthwise only. Test service temperatures range from 20°F to 110°F. Thermal
expansion .00007 (in/in/°F) Test factored at a maximum service
temperature of 100°F
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
High density polyethylene has a very good resistance to most acids and chemicals. For
this reason, Recycled Plastic Lumber is not affected by exposure to most substances.
FASTENERS AND TOOLS
Recycled Plastic Lumber can be sawed, nailed, screwed, stapled, or
stacked just like wood. It does not split and has no slivers. Nail holding characteristics
are similar to wood. It is recommended that ring shank nails or screws be used in
applications that exert pressure on the fasteners. Common hand tools can be used such as
drills, saws, or routers.
ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES
Recycled Plastic Lumber is not a conductor of electricity.
| D.C. Resistivity, ohm cm |
>1015 |
| Dielectric Constant, 60 cps |
2.3 2.3 5 |
| Dielectric Constant, 10° cps |
.5 |
| Dissipation Factor, 60 cps |
<0.OOO5 |
| Dissipation Factor, 10° cps |
<0.0005 |
ULTRAVIOLET WEATHERING
When color is added to Recycled Plastic Lumber, an ultraviolet stabilizer is also
incorporated. This assures that the product will not fade in exterior applications.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
The manufacturing process that creates Plastic Trading Company Recycled
Plastic Lumber generates no harmful air, water,or solid waste pollutants. Post consumer
milk jugs are crushed and ground. Then color and other additives may be added during the
extrusion process. Unwanted Recycled Plastic Lumber or scrap product can be reground and
extruded many times over without degradation in quality.
COMBUSTION
Recycled Plastic Lumber will burn when exposed to open flame. The product tends to self
extinguish when flame is removed. Since it is made from high density polyethylene it is a
paraffin base. The gas that is produced from burning is non toxic.