How to Polish and Repair Scratched Plastic

How to Polish and Maintain Plastic for a Sparkling Finish

Plastic is a beautiful and decorative material, known for its clarity and polished edges that sparkle in the light. However, over time, plastic can become scratched or dull. This guide will show you how to polish plastic edges and remove surface scratches, ensuring your plastic items remain pristine.

Understanding Plastic Types

Not all plastics can be polished using the same methods. Some, such as eyeglass lenses, may have coatings that prevent polishing or repair. The three most common clear plastics include:

• Acrylic – A highly transparent and decorative plastic that is easy to polish.

• Polycarbonate – Extremely tough and impact-resistant, though it lacks acrylic’s sparkle and requires different polishing techniques.

• Styrene – Often used for inexpensive applications, but it is brittle, prone to yellowing under UV exposure, and not typically repairable.

Edge Polishing Methods

One of the easiest ways to polish acrylic edges is by using a MAPP gas torch. (Note: Propane does not produce a hot enough flame.)

Flame Polishing Acrylic

1. Saw-Cut Edges: If the acrylic has rough edges from cutting, passing a MAPP gas torch along the edge will instantly polish it. However, saw marks may still be visible.

2. Routing Before Polishing: Using a router on the edges first will remove saw marks and provide a finer edge.

3. Sanding for a Smooth Finish: If no router is available, sanding with 320-grit sandpaper before polishing will create a frosted, smooth edge.

4. Final Polishing: After routing and sanding, flame polishing the edge will produce a professional, high-gloss finish.

Polishing Polycarbonate

Flame polishing does not work for polycarbonate—it burns the material. Instead:

1. Sanding: Use sandpaper to smooth the edges before polishing.

2. Buffing Wheel: A buffing wheel is the best tool for edge polishing polycarbonate.

3. Acrylic Cement Method: Applying acrylic cement with a rag can also create a polished finish on polycarbonate. However, this method should never be used on acrylic.

Buffing for Ultimate Shine

For acrylic sheets that are ½ inch or thicker, a buffing wheel will provide the ultimate edge polish.

Removing Surface Scratches

Scratches can detract from the appearance of plastic, but they can be repaired using two methods:

1. Buffing Method

• If you have a buffer, it is the fastest and easiest way to remove mild scratches.

• Buffing works on both acrylic and polycarbonate but not on coated plastics.

2. Novus Scratch Removal System

If you don’t have a buffer, the Novus system is an excellent alternative.

• Check Scratch Depth: If the scratch is deep enough to catch your fingernail, it is too deep for this method.

• Novus 3 (Coarse): Use first with a clean rag (not recommended for polycarbonate).

• Novus 2 (Fine): Apply after cleaning off Novus 3.

• Novus 1 (Polish): Finish with this for a flawless shine.

(For more details, refer to the How to Repair CDs and DVDs video.)

Conclusion

With the right techniques, you can polish and maintain plastic surfaces, keeping them clear and glossy. Whether you're polishing edges or removing scratches, using the correct tools and methods will ensure long-lasting beauty for your plastic items.