Choosing the right materials is one of the most critical decisions in any construction project. For formwork, the choice has traditionally been between plywood, steel, and more recently, various recycled plastic sheets. However, a new contender, the Plastic Aluminium Composite (PAC®) Board, is gaining significant traction. This blog provides a detailed comparison between generic recycled sheets and PAC® Boards to help builders make an informed decision for their next project.
Why Cheap Recycled Plastic Boards Fail ?
Cheap recycled plastic Boards are typically made from mixed municipal waste — a combination of discarded consumer plastics, paper residues, and other impurities. Even after washing, these materials retain moisture and contamination that weaken the final product.
The Hidden Disadvantages
- Deformation in High Temperatures – Poor-quality plastic softens during hot weather, causing boards to bend and lose shape.
- Poor Resistance to Moisture – Despite the outer coating, these pallets are not waterproof. The presence of paper-based and organic fillers allows moisture to seep inside, leading to swelling, bubbles, or delamination.
- Impure Composition – Since these boards are made from a mix of washed municipal plastic and paper-grade materials, the internal structure is inconsistent. Over time, this impurity causes splitting from within — you may notice cracks forming at the center or edges
About PAC® Boards by Rajratan
PAC® (Plastic Aluminium Composite) Boards, manufactured and supplied by Rajratan Industries across India, are an advanced formwork solution. They are engineered from a mix of industrial-grade plastics (like PP, LDPE, HDPE), Aluminium Oxide, Fibre, and XLP Metal. This specific composition gives them superior strength and stability, ensuring a higher number of uses and a great finish.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Recycled Sheets vs. PAC® BoardsFAQ
Parameters | Cheap Recycled Plastic Boards | PAC® Boards by Rajratan |
Composition | Made from low-grade municipal waste and post-consumer plastic mixed with paper residues, coated with a thin plastic layer. | Precisely engineered composite of Industrial-Grade Plastics (PP, LDPE, HDPE), Aluminum Oxide, and XLP Metals. |
Strength & Durability | Weak structural integrity. Cracks, warps, and deforms under heat or pressure. | High compressive strength (5222 PSI) and tensile strength (11.89 N/mm²). Does not deform, crack, or degrade under heavy load. |
Water & Weather Resistance | Not fully waterproof. Absorbs moisture and swells in humid or wet environments. | Completely waterproof, UV resistant, and heatproof. Maintains shape and surface integrity in all climates. |
Surface Finish | Uneven and inconsistent surface; coating wears off quickly. | Dual-face Smooth & Matt Finish ensures better casting results and longer life. |
Eco-Friendliness | Made from contaminated municipal waste; non-recyclable after use. | Made from 100% industrial-grade recyclable materials; supports circular manufacturing. |
Buyback Option | Not available. | 40% Buyback Replacement option available from Rajratan. |
Is special training required to use PAC® Boards?
No, additional workmanship is not required for installation. They are designed to be user-friendly. For wooden scaffolding, screws can be used for fixing. For steel frames, welding and rivets are recommended.
How do the long-term costs compare?
While the initial cost of advanced materials might be higher, the long-term return on investment is significantly greater. With PAC® Boards offering up to 100+ repetitions and a 40% buyback option, they prove to be a more cost-effective and economical choice for frequent buyers.
What kind of applications are PAC® Boards suitable for?
They are versatile and can be used for various formwork applications, including retaining walls, columns, beams, dividers, gutters, engineered structures, and slab/precast concrete.
The Verdict for Builders
While recycled plastic sheets are a step towards sustainable construction, they can present challenges. PAC® Boards, offered by Rajratan, represent the next level of innovation in formwork technology. They combine the eco-friendly aspect of recycled materials with the strength and reliability of an engineered composite, offering a superior, cost-effective, and durable solution for modern construction needs.
For builders across India looking for a reliable and high-performance alternative to traditional shuttering materials, PAC® Boards from Rajratan are the definitive choice. To learn more, contact Rajratan Industries
Know more about PAC® Board, Contact us at-
- Phone: 0731 4045302
- Mobile: +91 96857 27927
Email: info@rajratan.in