Properties and Applications of Sandwich Panels Based on PET Foams

PET foams of variable densities (1 g/cc to 0.2 g/cc), based on virgin and recycled material were produced by extrusion with physical or chemical blowing agents and evaluated as low density core in sandwich panels having M/F impregnated paper or flame retardant mineral reinforced PET as skin faces. Flexural and shear stiffness of the laminates were determined by variable span three point bending. Panels were also tested for thermal and moisture stability and compared with competitive sandwich constructions based on PVC foam, flake board, particleboard and plywood. Potential applications of the PET based laminates in building and construction are presented.