Expert: Steve Olson - 3/2/2005

Question
Hi,
I am helping in a design for an outdoor sign.  I have been tasked with finding a plastic that will allow light through (for night illumination from inside from flourescent lighting) and that can withstand the arizona sun and environment.  What kind of sheet plastic would be translucent, uv stable, and would available in off whites or tan type colors.. Where might I find this as well.  Thank you again for the opportunity to ask the question.  
Sincerely,   John

Answer
Dear John,

You need something that is probably available pretty easily from DuPont or GE Plastics. Typically a white color will add UV resistance in the form of the Titanium Dioxide Colorant.

GE has Lexan and others, DuPont has Tedlar, Mylar, etc. Lexan is polycarbonate and the others are polyvinyls, flouroelastomers, Teflons, Some acrylates, etc. There might also be some Urethanes that might do OK for this applicatrion.

I suggest contacting vacuum molders from www.thomasregister.com, I am sure that they will be able to help you and form the sheet into your sign too. Or you can go directly to DuPont or GE plastics and get their input. they will probably all have a special grade for outdoor signs and lighting applications with many color variations to choose from.

Hope this helps,

Steve Olson