Five common questions on ABS answered

Eagle Plastics team discussing sheet plastics on guillotine

How toxic is ABS plastic?

This question is one of many that people have about ABS thermoplastic. As a leading supplier of thermoplastic sheeting, we’ve got plenty of knowledge and expertise to offer our customers who want to know about thermoplastics. We know that when it comes buying ABS or any other thermoplastic, it’s vital that you do your research and find out everything you need to know beforehand. We stock lots of different thermoplastics and are particularly proud to be an ABS wholesaler – as ABS is one of the most versatile thermoplastics on the market, Eagle Plastics can accommodate a wide scope of purposes and applications.

What is ABS?

ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and is made from the polymerisation of styrene and acrylonitrile onto thermoplastic rubber. It remains one of the most popular types of thermoplastics available and this is down to the many different properties and uses that it has. It is usually sold in ABS sheet form so that it is easy to transport, cut, and manipulate.

How toxic is ABS plastic?

If you’re wondering how toxic ABS plastic is, then you can rest assured that ABS has been thoroughly researched over the years, and has presented no known adverse health effects from exposure. Although some of the material’s individual ingredients – such as styrene – can be toxic when in their own liquid or vapour forms, ABS thermoplastic remains stable and non-leaching. The thermoplastic doesn’t have any known carcinogens either and therefore proves to be a relatively safe material to use and be exposed to.

What are the properties of ABS?

ABS thermoplastic is a very tough material that has a strong resistance to high temperatures, chemicals and impact. It can also be purchased in flame-retardant grades if necessary. The thermoplastic is incredibly durable and can undergo plenty of different manufacturing processes such as vacuum forming and fabrication.

Where can it be used?

Due to its high impact resistance, ABS appeals to many different applications. Being weather resistant too, it is often used in the automotive industry – usually for car bumpers. It is the go-to material for the water sports industry and is commonly used to create water canoes and kayaks. ABS is also used to make protective helmets and headgear for construction and building purposes. Other items that are made from ABS include enclosures, disability aides, transit trays and automotive mouldings.

Where can you buy ABS plastic sheeting?

If you’re looking for an ABS supplier, then look no further than Eagle Plastics. We’ve supported projects and applications up and down the country and have plenty of flexibility when it comes to choosing the right thermoplastic for the job. Choose specific measurements, colours and finishes and we’ll take care of the rest – with extremely competitive prices too.

If you’d like to know more about how toxic ABS plastic is or you have any other questions, then head to our website today. Alternatively, you can call 0116 276 6363 to speak to a member of our helpful and friendly team.