Benefits of plastics in construction
In the past, the application of plastics in civil construction was limited to indoor environments, being used in pipes and electrical installations. Today, with technological development, new options for plastics and uses have also emerged. For example: tiles, floors, ventilation, windows, doors and much more. Among the characteristics that make this material so applicable in the civil construction segment are:
- Low weight;
- Competitive cost;
- Mechanical resistance;
- Corrosion resistance;
- Resistance to chemicals;
- Dimensional stability: in the case of thermoplastics, they can be easily refurbished and reused.
- Allows a variety of finishing options;
- Impermeability;
Most used types and main applications
Each type of plastic has its peculiar properties and suitable uses. Therefore, to succeed in construction, a correct selection of material must be made according to the purpose of the application. Among the main types used, we find:
- Polycarbonate: enables flat or curved roofs, as well as vertical enclosures and other architectural designs. It is the highest impact resistant thermoplastic. You can find it in tiles, cabin and machine protection, vehicle and environment shielding, solar collectors, visors, instrument panels, residential, commercial and public projects, among others. It is available in several formats.
- PVC: versatile, durable and low maintenance, it can be used in roofing, connections, water networks, etc. The civil construction segment consumes more than 60% of the PVC manufactured in Brazil.
- Acrylic: Acrylic combines transparency, durability and economy with every project in which it is used. In addition, it offers endless possibilities of applications with practicality and functionality. It is used in lighting fixtures, shower stalls, partitions, etc.
- Polystyrene: this is a hard, transparent and odorless thermoplastic. It is applied in kitchenware, lighting fixtures, benches, insulation, etc.
In addition, engineering plastics are widely used for finishing metal components, accessories, electrical and infrastructure works.
In Brazil, plastic still has potential for expansion, as new additives and combinations expand the qualities of materials.
