Choosing the right synthetic substrate is critical to ensuring both performance and cost-efficiency. This chart compares four of the most commonly used synthetic polymers—Polypropylene (PP), Polyester (PET), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and Polystyrene (PS).
Each material offers unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications. Many brands are known by name rather than their actual polymer type. Knowing what plastic polymer corresponds to each brand is critical to evaluating the fit. Use this side-by-side guide to match materials for your project.
| PP | PP | PVC | PS | PET | |
| Polypropylene Xquisite™ |
Polypropylene UniSyn™ |
Polyvinyl Chloride Rigid Vinyl (PVC) |
Polystyrene Styrene |
Polyester | |
| Tear Resistance |
Average
|
Good
|
Average
|
Poor - Brittle
|
Excellent
|
| Foldablity |
Excellent
|
Good with Scoring
|
Poor - Ideal for flat applications
|
Flat Applications Only
|
Poor
|
| Water Resistance |
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
| UV Resistance |
Average
|
Average
|
Good
|
Indoor Use Only
|
Excellent
|
| Chemical Resistance |
Excellent
|
Excellent
|
Average
|
Poor
|
Good
|
| Thermal Stablity |
Good
|
Average
|
Average
|
Good
|
Excellent
|
| Cost |
Low
|
Low
|
Low
|
Low
|
High
|
| Rigidity |
Balanced - Semi-Rigid
|
Soft & Flexiable
|
Good Rigidity
|
Good Rigidity
|
Excellent Rigidity
|
| White Level |
Warm White
|
Neutral White
|
Neutral White
|
Cool White
|
Warm White
|
| Common Uses |
|
|
|
|
|