Thermoplastic Compounds
Thermoplastic compounds are manufactured by a process that is reversible. Thermoplastics can be remolded
repeatedly by reheating. This characteristic of thermoplastics makes plastic welding a possible repair alternative. A
repair of thermoplastic compounds is still possible through the use of 2-part adhesive and filler repair materials and
reinforcements as needed. Thermoplastics are widely used in interior trim components, wheel flares, body side
cladding and bumper covers.
Polyolefin
Polyolefins fall into the family of thermoplastics with one unique characteristic: an oily or waxy feel to the material
when sanded or ground. Polyolefin lends itself very well to remolding through the use of heat. Because of this,
components made of this material lend themselves well to the possibility of plastic welding. Most adhesive repair
materials and paint will not bond to surface of a polyolefin unless an adhesion promoter specially formulated for plastic
is first applied to the exposed raw surface. Otherwise, polyolefins are repaired like most other thermoplastics.
Polyolefins are used in bumper covers, fan shrouds and wheel housings.
Proper identification of the various types of plastic is necessary to select the appropriate repair method(s) to carry out
high quality plastic repairs. Refer to Plastics Identification
in this section.
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