SAN sheet (Styrene Acrylic Nitrile)

SAN sheet ideal for glazing.

SAN sheet:

SAN is relatively light: it has a density of 1.08 and is a rigid, transparent thermoplastic. SAN plastic was 'invented' in the 80's and is a mix of PS and PMMA. Compared to other plastic sheets e.g. PET-G, PMMA-XT, and PC, SAN is +/- 10% lighter. This is why SAN is often used for glazing for garage and industrial doors. This application is often in combination with a coating in order to avoid scratches, as well a UV-protection layer.

SAN is 100% recycable and certified according to REACH and RoHS. To prevent scratches, a coating is available. SAN is a luminous polystyrene variant with acrylic characteristics. It is therefore easy to shape and a good alternative to the more expensive acrylic. Other typical applications with SAN are found in the sign and display industry, printing industry and for shopfitting. No pre-drying is need when thermoformed, as SAN does not absorb moisture.

SAN sheet:

The characteristics

Clear glass-like sheet

Dimensions: 3050 * 2050 MM - other dimensions on demand.

Thermoplastic sheet

Density: 1,08

Suitable for food contact (non-UV)

In- and outdoor use

UV resistant: option - double-sided also possible.

Hard and rigid sheet

Mix of PS and PMMA (approx. 75 - 25%)

High chemical resistance to acids, alkalis, and oils.

SAN sheet:

Processing

Sawing / Punching / Gluing / Drilling

Contour milling / Plotting

Laser / water jet / (die) cutting

Hot and cold bending

Thermoforming

Laminating

Folding (V-groove)

Printing (digital and screen)

SAN sheet:

Applications

Glazing (e.g. industrial doors)

Displays / Signage / Lettering

Applications in the food industry

Shower screens (flat or curved)

SAN sheet

Colors, sizes, thicknesses

Thicknesses: 1 to 5 mm

Colors: transparent / white / black / opal

Structure: Q Back and Impala

Use: indoor and outdoor

Various structures possible

SAN sheet

A Belgian invention

SAN sheets are a Belgian invention (by the former company Barlo from Geel). In the 1980s, there was a shortage of MMA - the raw material for acrylic. As an alternative, a small amount of MMA was mixed with the raw material for polystyrene (PS), and thus SAN plastic was born. SAN sheets possess certain characteristics of both plastics. The most well-known application of SAN is in Hörmann industrial and garage doors.