What is a high impact plastic?
 May 27, 2025|View:213

High impact plastic is a material which has been engineered to offer superior resistance to high force or pressure. Unlike standard plastics (such as polystyrene) that could crack if dropped or knocked, high impact plastics soak up the energy and bend or flex without breaking. Call High Impact Plasticthe “shock absorber” of the plastic world.

High impact plastic sheet

How Is High Impact Plastic Made?


High impact Plastics are usually two types of materials mixed together:

A basic plastic (polypropylene or polystyrene, for example).

A filler (usually rubber or other elastic material).


The plastic has a "tough" rather than a brittle nature due to this mixture. For instance, ABS plastic — which is used in LEGO bricks and automobile dashboards — owes its strength to rubber particles mixed into the base plastic. These rubbery additives, on a microscopic scale, serve as cushions, dispersing the force of an impact and preventing cracks.


High Impact Plastics: The Key Characteristics

Sturdiness: High Impact Plastic don’t break under pressure too quickly.

Flexibility: High Impact Plastic can be slightly bent without breaking.

Lightweight: High Impact Plastics are light to the touch like most plastics.

They can be shaped in complex ways.

Popular Variants of High Impact Plastics


Below are some commonly used examples:


ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – Found in toys, helmets, and appliances.

Polycarbonate (PC): Used in safety goggles and smartphone cases.

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS): Many packaging, and disposable utensils are made of this.

Polypropylene (PP): Found in automotive parts and storage containers.


Where Are High Impact Plastics Used?


High Impact Plastic: Best for products that are subject to rough usage:

Parts of automotive (bumpers, dashboards).

Electronics (phone cases, laptop shells and the like).

Protective gear (helmets, goggles).

Medical (syringes and medical housing).

Toys (tough building blocks, outdoor playsets).


Why Choose High Impact Plastic?

Affordable: Less expensive than metal, yet nearly as tough.

Light Weight: Shipping costs will be lower and vehicles will be more fuel efficient.

Rust Proof: Will not rust or tarnish in moist environment.

Recyclable: Many variants are reusable meaning less environmental impact.


In Summary

High impact plastic won't break or crack, and was designed to withstand the rigors of working on the go. Plastic with rubber-like additives, offers a lightweight, affordable substitute to conventional metals or opaque plastic. From shielding your phone to helping make cars safer, high-impact plastics do a quiet but important job in modern society. As technology progresses, it’s feasible that even stronger and environmentally friendly materials could be developed.


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