What Is Phenolic Film Faced Plywood sheet ?

Phenolic film faced plywood sheets are construction materials widely used in the building industry, especially in concrete formwork applications. These sheets consist of a plywood core with one or both sides covered by a phenolic film overlay.

Here are the key characteristics and uses of phenolic film faced plywood sheets:

1. Plywood Core:

The core of phenolic film faced plywood sheets is typically made up of multiple layers of wood veneers that are bonded together with phenolic resin adhesive. The choice of wood species for the core can vary, but it is usually selected for its strength and stability.

2. Phenolic Film Overlay:

The standout feature of these sheets is the phenolic film overlay on one or both sides. This overlay is a thin layer of paper or fabric impregnated with phenolic resin, a synthetic thermosetting plastic known for its durability and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and abrasion. The phenolic film gives the plywood sheets their distinctive dark brown or black appearance.

3. Waterproof and Weather-Resistant:

Phenolic film faced plywood sheets are exceptionally waterproof and weather-resistant. The phenolic film overlay provides an effective barrier against moisture, preventing the plywood from absorbing water and becoming susceptible to warping, delamination, or rot. This resistance to the elements makes these sheets ideal for outdoor and wet applications.

4. Smooth and Durable Surface:

The phenolic film overlay creates a smooth and durable surface that is easy to clean and maintain. This surface is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it suitable for repetitive use in concrete formwork applications. The smooth finish also allows for easy release of concrete from the forms.

5. Reusability:

One of the significant advantages of phenolic film faced plywood sheets is their reusability. These sheets can withstand multiple uses in concrete formwork projects, reducing the need for frequent replacement and contributing to cost savings over time.

6. Applications:

Phenolic film faced plywood sheets are primarily used in concrete formwork, where they serve as the molds or shuttering for casting concrete structures. They are commonly used in the construction of walls, columns, slabs, and other structural elements. The smooth surface of these sheets helps achieve a consistent and high-quality finish on concrete surfaces. Beyond concrete formwork, they are also used in applications requiring a durable, weather-resistant, and smooth surface, such as truck trailer flooring, scaffolding, playground equipment, and more.

7. Standard Sizes and Thicknesses:

Foresmate’s Phenolic film faced plywood sheets are available in standard sizes and thicknesses to accommodate various construction needs. Common thicknesses include 12mm, 15mm, 18mm, and 21mm. Standard sheet sizes typically range from 2440mm x 1220mm (8′ x 4′) to larger dimensions suitable for construction applications.

In summary, phenolic film faced plywood sheets are a specialized construction material known for their durability, water resistance, and versatility in concrete formwork and other applications requiring a robust and weather-resistant surface. Their ability to withstand the challenges posed by concrete pouring and curing makes them valuable assets in the construction industry.