Alexei Volkov
Plastic is generally a very smooth and non-porous surface, making it perfect for adhesive vinyl. However, the ease of application depends on the type of plastic and its chemical formula. Before applying vinyl to plastic, it is important to clean the surface of any dust or oils. This can be done by washing the plastic in a dishwasher or wiping it down with rubbing alcohol. For plastics that are difficult to adhere to, such as polyethylene, low energy vinyl or a primer can be used to improve adhesion. Other methods include using a blow torch to burn away oil and residue, or using a spray adhesive.
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What You'll Learn
Identify the type of plastic
There are several ways to identify the type of plastic. One common method is the float test, which involves cutting a small piece of plastic and dropping it into a glass of water. If it sinks, it is likely a dense plastic like HDPE or PVC. If it floats, it is probably a less dense plastic like PET or LDPE.
Another identification method is the burn test, which involves using a lighter or match to burn a small piece of plastic and observing the flame colour and smell. For example, polyvinyl is non-flammable and will not keep a flame going on its own. However, if heated for long enough, it will start to smell like chlorine. Polystyrene, on the other hand, is highly flammable and produces a smell similar to burnt styrene.
You can also identify plastics by their appearance and feel. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), for instance, often feels soft, tough, and sometimes sticky. It has a glossy texture and often appears yellowish. LDPE, meanwhile, feels soft and smooth, like a sandwich bag. Many plastic shopping bags are made from HDPE, which feels harder and more crinkly.
Plastics can also be identified by their Recycling Resin Codes, which are numbers from 1 to 7 that correspond to specific types of plastic resin. For example, 1 stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), a clear, strong, and lightweight plastic used for beverage bottles and food containers. 3 stands for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), a versatile and flexible plastic used for pipes, hoses, and window frames.
It's important to note that these tests may not work for all types of plastics and should be performed with caution, as they can release harmful fumes or chemicals.
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Clean the plastic
To prepare plastic for vinyl, it is important to clean the plastic surface thoroughly. This will ensure that the vinyl adheres well to the plastic and prevents the formation of water bubbles or other issues that may affect the appearance and longevity of the vinyl graphic. Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean the plastic:
Firstly, identify the type of plastic you are working with. Different types of plastics have specific cleaning recommendations and surface preparation requirements. For example, solvents may damage polystyrenes, and poly-carbons tend to trap moisture. Knowing the chemical composition of the plastic substrate is crucial before applying adhesive vinyl.
Once you have identified the type of plastic, follow the recommended cleaning method. In most cases, you can wash the plastic with a mild detergent or soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the surface, removing any dirt, dust, or grease. Rinse the surface with clean water and ensure it is thoroughly dried before moving on to the next step.
If the plastic surface has been exposed to oils or lubricants, you may need to use a stronger cleaning agent. Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, can be effective in removing any residual oil or grease from the plastic. Wipe the surface down with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol, ensuring you cover the entire area. Alternatively, you can use a blow torch for a few seconds to burn away any oil or residue, but be cautious not to melt the plastic.
For more challenging plastics, such as polyethylene, additional steps may be required. One method is to use a product like Vvid spray, which promotes adhesion. However, for better results, a primer like 3M 94 Primer or a clear product like MacTac Rebel High Tack can be applied before the vinyl. Another technique is corona treatment, where you carefully apply the flame of a torch to the surface and then clean it well before installing the vinyl.
Finally, ensure the plastic surface is completely dry and free of any dust or debris before applying the vinyl. You can use compressed air or a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any remaining dust particles. It is crucial to work in a clean environment to avoid any contamination during the vinyl application process.
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Use transfer tape
When using transfer tape to apply vinyl to plastic, it is important to prepare the plastic surface first. Plastic is generally a very smooth and non-porous surface, making it perfect for adhesive vinyl. To ensure your vinyl sticks well, the plastic should be free from dust and oils. Wash your plastic containers in the dishwasher or wipe them down with rubbing alcohol.
Once your plastic surface is clean and dry, you can begin to apply the transfer tape. Unroll enough tape to cover your entire design, keeping your fingers inside the roll to avoid tearing. Burnish the tape, then cut or tear it off the roll. Flip it over and burnish the other side.
Peel the vinyl liner away from the transfer tape and design. If your vinyl does not separate from the liner, simply burnish the liner back onto the vinyl and peel away again. Attach a small area of the design to your plastic surface, starting at the centre or one end. Use a scraper to burnish the design onto the surface, working outwards from your starting point.
Finally, carefully peel the transfer tape away from the design. If the design peels up with the tape, simply burnish the tape and vinyl back down and try peeling again. Transfer tape was designed to make transferring vinyl designs to surfaces easy, so take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.
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Use vinyl for low-energy plastics
Low surface energy plastics (LSE plastics) are generally soft and have a low melting point, making them easy to process and mould. They are also low-density, which helps with lightweighting. However, due to their low surface energy, they can be challenging for adhesives to bond with, resulting in weak bonds or failure of the applied graphics.
To successfully apply vinyl to LSE plastics, it is important to first determine the type of plastic and follow the specific cleaning and preparation recommendations for that material. For example, solvents may damage polystyrenes, and poly-carbons tend to trap moisture. Proper adhesion will depend on several variables, including the production and chemical makeup of the plastic, as well as the condition and cleanliness of the surface, temperature, and humidity during installation.
Some LSE plastics can be flame-treated or "flashed" to improve adhesion with standard adhesives. Recent advances in adhesion chemistry have also led to the development of a new solvent-free two-stage acrylic adhesive that bonds well with LSE plastics. PrismJET 203HT is an example of an intermediate calendared vinyl that bonds well to LSE plastics and adheres to simple curves, making it suitable for decorating high-density polypropylene body panels on dirt bikes and ATVs.
When applying vinyl to polypropylene, polyethylene, and other challenging surfaces, a special high-tack vinyl like PrismJET 203HT is recommended. To ensure extra abrasion protection for graphics on dirt bikes and football helmets, PrismJET 238 Armor Overlaminate film can be used in conjunction with PrismJET 203HT. Other vinyl options for low-energy surfaces include MacTac Rebel, General Formulations - Concept 201 HTAP, and Substance X1 or X2.
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Avoid glue
When preparing plastic for vinyl, it is important to consider the type of plastic and its chemical composition. Some plastics are more receptive to adhesive vinyl than others, and improper installation can lead to issues such as outgassing, where water bubbles form between the vinyl and the plastic substrate.
To avoid using glue when applying vinyl to plastic, it is essential to start with a clean surface. If your plastic containers have been in storage, wash them in the dishwasher or wipe them down with rubbing alcohol to remove any dust or oils. This will help ensure that your vinyl adheres properly.
The smoothness of the plastic surface also plays a role in vinyl adhesion. If the plastic has a texture or is coarse, it may be necessary to use a primer or bonder specifically designed for such surfaces. However, be aware that some types of plastic, such as Polypropylene (PP), may require extensive preparation even after sanding due to the oils that can seep to the surface.
Instead of glue, consider using transfer tape. After cutting and weeding your vinyl labels, you can choose to cut a large piece of transfer tape or smaller pieces that match the size of your labels. Place the labels face-down on the transfer tape and use a scraper or your fingers to press the vinyl onto the tape. This method will help transfer the vinyl to the plastic surface without the need for glue.
Additionally, heat can be used to improve adhesion without glue. Applying heat with a hairdryer or heat gun before pressing the vinyl onto the plastic can help the adhesive melt and conform to the surface, including any textures or crevices. This technique is especially useful for "low energy surfaces" where vinyl typically struggles to stick.
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Frequently asked questions
First, determine the type of plastic and follow the cleaning recommendations for the specific material. For example, if your plastic has been sitting around the house, throw it in the dishwasher or wipe it down with rubbing alcohol to ensure it is free from dust and oils. If your plastic is a low energy surface, you may need to use a vinyl labelled as high tack.
Styrofoam, which is a polystyrene plastic, is not the best substrate for adhesive vinyl. Poly-carbons tend to trap moisture, so they may not be suitable either.
Arlon DPF8000 vinyl has been recommended for its ability to stick to old plastic and its low cost. If you are applying vinyl to a low energy plastic, you can use Ritrama vinyl or Orajet 3951HT (High Tack) Gloss White.
