U.S. plastic sheet market to reach $7.2 billion by 2011: study

Demand for plastic sheet in the U.S. is projected to grow nearly three per cent yearly to 7.7 billion pounds in 2011 to a value of US $7.2 billion, according to a new study just released by Chicago-based research firm The Freedonia Group.

The study, entitled Plastic Sheet, examines the plastic sheet segment of the US plastics industry. Historical data are presented for 1996, 2001 and 2006 with forecasts to 2011 and 2016.

The study also concluded that food packaging markets will present the best opportunities and increase to 3.8 billion pounds in 2011, accounting for nearly half of all sheet applications; and that polystyrene sheet will account for nearly half of all applications in 2011.

The report discusses plastic sheet demand by resin (polystyrene, polypropylene, PVC, polyethylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, polyester and others) and market (packaging, construction, consumer and others). Analysis is done in the context of overall economic conditions, market developments and changing technologies. Data are presented in pounds, with dollar values for the total market.

The report defined plastic sheet as having a thickness of greater than 12 mils.

A study brochure (in PDF format) can be obtained at www.freedoniagroup.com/pdf/2283embro.pdf. The study can be ordered at telephone 440-684-9600 or 1-800-927-5900; or fax 440- 646-0484. The cost of the 242-page study is US$4,500.