This story originally appeared on Best Stocks
Plexiglass stocks: a great investment in the last 2 years
Plexiglass – together with more traditional masks – have had a tremendous impact in preventing the spread of Coronavirus. When the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a Pandemic in March 2020 many companies required their employees to wear masks and place plastic shields at all workstations. As a result, customers and employees could interact freely, without fear of cough and sneezes.
Nowadays, you can find plexiglass dividers at supermarkets, dry cleaners, and restaurant pickup windows. They are also available at pharmacies and budget retailers. Dave Heylen, the Sacramento-based representative of the California Grocers Association (an industry association representing over 300 retail companies with more than 7,000 locations), says, “Grocers were amongst the first merchants who embraced the plexiglass barrier.” He claimed that nearly all grocers did this without any advice from the group.
COVID-19 is currently a success in the plexiglass market. The International Association of Plastics Distribution reported that sales of plexiglass and the trademarked Plexiglas soared by two to three folds over the $250 million mark between March and May 2019. As a result, plexiglass stocks have been among the best stock investments in 2020 and 2021. But are plexiglass the best stocks to buy now?
Are plexiglass stocks still on the raise in 2022?
Plexiglass has been a top-wanted product in recent years due to the need for protection and social separation. In addition, hospitals urgently needed face shields as the coronavirus epidemic in the United States reached its thousandth case. As a result, Plaskolite became the largest manufacturer of thermoplastic sheets in the United States, also known as plexiglass. The company has overgrown in the $4 billion acrylic sheet industry, providing the necessary glass-like material for face shield manufacturing.
Plaskolite’s executive chairman Grindley thinks that demand for face shields is expected to level off by the end of this year. However, he also believes the market for acrylic barriers won’t slow down anytime soon. Grindley thinks that in addition to the increase in demand from restaurants and merchants and offices that are slowly rising, new use cases and potential purchasers are emerging as non-essential companies across the country reopen.
He adds, “I come in everyday and hear about new applications.” For example, Plaskolite currently produces transparent barriers between tables and restaurant booths, shatterproof walls to keep bus drivers and passengers separated, and “barrier stations” that employers use to measure employees’ temperatures at the beginning of their shifts. Grindley said he had received numerous requests for barriers between movie theater seats, airline seats, dentist offices, and bus drivers. Employers also use the devices to measure employees’ temperatures at the beginning of shifts.
However, according to some in the industry, the plexiglass boom is not sustainable. For example, Altuglas, a subsidiary of Arkema’s specialty chemicals supplier, says that the rising demand for the acrylic sheet is only helping offset other segment declines. It also states that it is operating at full capacity for these products but does not believe that the market is strong enough to justify increased investment in new lines.
Plaskolite’s CEO for many years is less concerned with demand. Grindley said that Plaskolite is working on a second-generation antimicrobial and scratch-resistant barrier. It’s something every frontline employees want and customers demand. People should become accustomed to it as it’s here long term.
Exactly, what is Plexiglass?
Plexiglass was invented in 1928 by chemist Dr. Otto Rohm while he was developing new plastics from coal tar, but it was only introduced on the market under this trade name in 1933 by the company Rohm & Haas. The name Plexiglass comes from the words “plastic” and “acrylic,” which combined mean “acrylic plastic.”
This material is a type of plastic that can be found at home improvement stores. It’s used to make everything from shower doors and storm windows to picture frames and coffee tables. It’s lightweight, durable, flexible, and easy to work with. You can cut it, drill it, sand it, paint it, and use an adhesive to attach objects onto it! There are many ways you can use plexiglass in your home.
Plexiglass is a versatile material that has a range of applications. It is widely used in construction but can also be found in home appliances and furniture. Previously, the material was manufactured for industrial purposes only. Plus, plexiglass is an energy-efficient material that minimizes sound transmission so you can enjoy peace of mind at home or work without interruption.
Different ways of using plexiglass
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the need to isolate some environments, plexiglass was one of the most used alternatives. However, the material is already widely used in different environments and products. Therefore, investing in acrylic companies can be very profitable.
Because of the pandemic, some companies did very well with the sale and production of plexiglass for a virus protection collaboration.
Thanks to an uncertain future, plastic production will still be needed. There are many other reasons why investing in Plexiglass is a good idea.
What are the distinctions between polycarbonate and plexiglass ?
Both polycarbonate and plexiglass can be used as glass substitutes. As an example, for a machine enclosure project, it is necessary to develop labor safety protections that meet all regulatory standards (NR-6, NR-10, NR-12, NR-17, and NR-26).
This is because glass does not improve worker safety and can be replaced with one of these alternatives. Both can be used to ensure that those outside the machine can see what is going on while it is running.
This is a preventive control measure to avoid accidents and reduce noise levels, ensuring worker safety and avoiding equipment accidents.
Polycarbonate and plexiglass have some characteristics in common: they are transparent materials with some resistance and are lighter than glass, but they scratch easily. Another important point is that they are less durable when solvents are applied. However, the composition of each is very different.
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Polycarbonate
This polymer, also known as Lexan or Makrolon, is created through a chemical reaction (phosgene with bisphenol A) and the injection of hot plastic into shapes or extrusion through a hole to form bars or tubes.
When compared to plexiglass, this material has a higher impact strength and is commonly used for shielding. Because polycarbonate is manufactured in flexible sheets, it is uncommon for it to chip. However, it must be cleaned with caution, avoiding the use of harsh solvents.
Plexiglass
It is a type of plastic manufactured from a methyl methacrylate monomer in powder or syrup form. Its formation occurs from heating in sheets or tubes, by means of a polymerization catalyst. Its commercial name is Lucite.
Plexiglass is rigid and may chip, and is less resistant to impact. To clean this material, neutral soap is recommended to avoid corrosion.
Material Utilization
Polycarbonate is used in industry for projects that require high impact resistance and long-term durability. Another benefit of this material is its low flammability, which ensures greater safety and reduces the risk of accidents in environments where fire can spread.
Plexiglass, on the other hand, is preferred in projects where transparency and rigidity are desired but a lighter material is preferred to compose a piece.
Plexiglass properties
Plexiglass is less dense – its density ranges between 1150 and 1190 kg/m³. This is less than half the density of glass, which ranges between 2400 and 2800 kg/m³.
This material has a higher impact strength than glass and does not shatter, but can break into large pieces.
It is softer and has less scratch protection than glass. This can be circumvented by anti-scratch films.
Plexiglass is produced and processed at lower temperatures than glass: only 240-250 °C under atmospheric pressure.
Unlike glass this material does not filter out ultraviolet light. Plexiglass transmits UV light below 300 nm.
This material transmits light in the infrared frequency above 2800 nm. Long wavelength infrared light, above 25,000 nm, is blocked. Special formulations of color exist to allow the transmission of specific wavelengths in the infrared spectrum, while blocking visible light (380 to 750 nm) to be used for example in remote controls.
The advantages of plexiglass
Benefits in relation to maintenance
Plexiglass sheets have a gleaming, transparent surface that is crucial for constructing a variety of artworks using the material.
Polishing: Depending on the piece’s function and structure, plexiglass can suffer light scratches owing to the use of agents not recommended for cleaning and the action of time, as in cases of public engagement. Plexiglass, on the other hand, has a unique feature: the ability to remove scratches using easy techniques, restoring the piece’s original appearance and ensuring a superb finish every time. The material can be polished manually with a clean flannel, or with furniture, plastics, or even automotive wax polishing products.
Benefits in relation to the structure of the material
A plexiglass sheet has up to five times the impact performance of flat glass of equivalent thickness. In addition, it has excellent shatter resistance. When it breaks, it breaks into large pieces, unlike glass, which makes plexiglass a safer option as well.
The thicknesses of plexiglass sheets vary from 1mm to 60mm, which makes it possible for plexiglass to be used even in the making of aquariums, even withstanding hydrostatic pressure. When in low thicknesses, this material becomes very light pieces, facilitating their transport.
Plexiglass sheets usually have a durability of up to 10 years, resisting any type of climatic action. They have protection from the sun’s UV rays, which is also a guarantee against weathering yellowing.
Benefits in relation to glass
Plexiglass sheets have several advantages for use in place of glass. Are they:
.Impact resistance is ten times that of glass.
.Density twice that of glass.
.For the same object, the weight is half.
. It does not cause injuries to people when it breaks.
.Transparency greater than glass.
.Plexiglass sheets have greater resistance to sunlight, which allows a very long life for plexiglass.
.Greater variety of texture and colors
Thus in many plexiglass sheet applications it may be advantageous to use this material instead of glass.
Some examples can be cited:Houseware Windows in schools where there are children Security windows in buildings Store counters Refrigerator counters.
The 5 best plexiglass stocks you can invest in.
Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE: XOM)
Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) is a company engaged in exploring and producing oil and natural gas and the refining and distribution of petroleum products. The current CEO of this company is Darren W. Woods. Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) was formed on November 30, 1999, from the merger of Exxon and Mobil, two companies resulting from the division of Standard Oil Company in 1911. This company has been in existence for over 100 years and has grown to become one of the largest corporations in the world.
Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) driving sustainability
The fossil fuel industry is in decline. The world’s dependence on oil for energy will end, and the sooner, the better. Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) knows this, which is why it has invested heavily in renewable energy sources.
The company has made significant progress in developing solar technology and investing in clean fuels such as natural gas. That’s because, like any other company, Exxon Mobil wants to survive.
Exxon Mobil performance in the market
Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) is ranked the second most profitable company globally. It operates in six segments: exploration and production, refining, marketing and transport, petrochemicals, natural gas, and energy generation.
This company uses oil to produce plastic. As the economy today is still based on oil production, it will still profit even after the COVID-19 virus is neutralized.
The world is changing. Yesterday’s tech is tomorrow’s junk. With this in mind, Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) is looking at new ways to maintain its competitive advantage in the marketplace. One of the latest trends in the tech industry is the incorporation of plexiglass into business strategies.
Exxon Mobil Corporation stock price
Exxon Mobil Corp. (XOM) was also the most valuable company on the planet, with a market capitalization of $343 billion as of July 25, 2018. In addition, the company reported revenues of $348 billion in 2019.
The stocks are trading at $63.01 (+0.64%) with a 52-week interval between 40.53 – 66.38 (+48.29%) with a market value of $266.757B, with a market capitalization of $260.70B, will currently be valued at $312.54B.
LyondellBasell Industries NV (NYSE: LYB)
At LyondellBasell Industries NV (NYSE: LYB), Plexiglass represents over 90% of the company’s production! This Industries has been around since 1883 and today produces substances used in plastics, polymers, paints, solvents, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and more.
LyondellBasell Industries is an international petrochemical company providing products worldwide. This company has been using Plexiglass products for over 50 years. Plexiglass helped create the most famous landmarks for LyondellBasell Industries, including the Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. They continue to work together today with cutting-edge innovations in sustainability technologies.
The company was initially founded by brothers J.A. Lyondell and H.O. Lyondell, producing oilfield equipment such as pumps and valves for drilling rigs and pipelines in the early 20th century. Today, it is one of the largest chemical companies globally, with more than 240 factories in 37 different countries.
Why invest in LyondellBasell Industries NV (NYSE: LYB)?
The main market segments for Lyondellbasell Industries NV (NYSE: LYB) at the end of 2015 were refining and trading, which represented 36% of total revenue; polymer products, which accounted for 27%; plastics and packaging, with 25%; and other specialty chemicals, which accounted for 8%. The company’s operations span three continents, with approximately 20 factories in 14 countries within those continents.
This industry has long-term partnerships with other companies such as ExxonMobil Chemical Company (Exxon Mobil), Dow Chemical Company (Dow), BASF SE (BASF), and INEOS Group Limited (INEOS). As a result, LyondellBasell has emerged as one of the most prominent players in an industry characterized by consolidation.
LyondellBasell stock price (NYSE: LYB)
Lyondellbasell Industries NV (NYSE: LYB) has a market capitalization of $29.59 billion and produces more than 1 million metric tons of product annually. The stocks are trading at $89.91 (-0.04%), with a 52-week range between 84.06 – 118.02 (3.27%). With a market value of $29.921 billion, the company currently has 42.70 billion.
Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW)
Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW) is a diversified agricultural, materials, and chemicals company that has stood the test of time. It was founded in 1898 by Herbert Henry Dow, who had the idea of
Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW) has a broad presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, with approximately 8,000 positions in more than 70 factories and affiliate offices. The company’s products are used to manufacture plastics, packaging, adhesives, paints, and coatings, among many other items that we consider commonplace every day. With just one company alone having such a far-reaching effect on the world, it’s no wonder they have to follow regulations set by different international organizations.
Key products offered by Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) operates in three industries: chemicals and materials, essential plastics, and performance plastics.
They produce a wide range of products, including synthetic rubber, solvents, paints, and polystyrene foam. Dow’s impact on the world cannot be ignored. They can be found not just in Michigan but all over the world. With such a diverse range of products they supply, it’s hard to imagine an industry they don’t address at some point or another.
Dow (NYSE: DOW) maintains a “commitment to innovation” as a fundamental principle and invests 12% of its annual sales in research and development each year. In addition to its three units in the United States, Dow also has two teams in Europe and another 5 in Asia-Pacific.
How does Dow (NYSE: DOW) work perfectly with plexiglass?
Dow (NYSE: DOW) had produced plexiglass since 1968 when it developed strong plexiglass that could withstand extreme temperatures that were initially used only for laboratory equipment and ovens but eventually expanded to other commercial uses such as office buildings and storefronts .” Plexiglass” was released by Dow.
The company maintains a strong position in this market through its Atofina and its joint venture with Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).
Plexiglass is one of the Dow innovations that will make your life more comfortable. For example, it will be easier to get things done on rainy days or when you need to work outdoors on a hot day.
Why should you invest in Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW)?
The company expanded its core business into other areas, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, transportation systems, etc. As a result, it’s worth considering a four-star investment rating on Morningstar’s Market Category Scale as part of your portfolio if you’re looking for growth potential. In addition, Dow shares have yielded 6.5% a year for the past decade and pay a 3.1% dividend.
Dow (NYSE: DOW) has a long history of innovation in new materials, including Styron polystyrene foam insulation. Their latest creation is called Dow Thermax™ fabric made from a unique combination of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) with metal oxides to create an advanced fiber coating that allows fabrics to slide over each other without sticking or dragging.
With that kind of innovation on its side, Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW) would be an excellent investment for any investor looking to participate in the next wave of high-tech development in the textile industry. Dow Chemical Company offers a variety of world-renowned products for their efficiency and sustainability. In addition, the company has invested in new facilities around the world to meet global demand for its products.
Dow Inc. stock price (NYSE: DOW)
Dow’s share price has fluctuated over the past five years but has remained at about $53 a share for most of this year. This year alone, Dow has seen a 7% rise in its stock price, compared to a 2% rise in the S&P 500 index.
In addition, with the newly elected president promising changes in many different sectors, it is expected that Dow shares continue to increase in value. As a result, people invest in Dow Inc. (NYSE: DOW).
The stock is currently trading at $54.68 (+0.53%), with a 52-week range between 51.33 – 71.38 (+3.05%), with a market capitalization of $40.442 billion and a market capitalization of $39.85 billion
Berry Global Group, Inc. (BERY)
BERRY Global Group Inc (NYSE: BERY) stock is a powerful investing opportunity. The company has been making many positive changes lately, and the results are starting to show.
BERRY Global Group Inc (NYSE: BERY) is a global producer and distributor of packaging materials for the food, personal care, and household products industries. BERRY operates in three segments: Personal Care Packaging Materials, Specialty Plastics, and Food Packaging Materials.
Berry Global Group Inc (NYSE: BERY) and the Plexiglass Market
Berry Global Group Inc (NYSE: BERY) has been around for over 60 years. Still, it didn’t start as a manufacturer of products like Plexiglass or polyester films – it began as a textile company. In the 1960s, they entered the plastics industry by purchasing National Plastics Company and entering into a joint venture with Rohm & Haas Company called National Union Chemical Company, renamed Berry-Rohm & Haas in the 1980s. Later that decade, Berry Global bought Rohm & Haas.
The stocks of Plexiglass producers have been going up and down drastically due to recent events in the Middle East. Several factors go into deciding the price of Plexiglass, such as the cost of raw materials, changes in currency values, and competition. Berry Global Group Inc (NYSE: BERY) is one company that produces Plexiglass.
Berry Global Group, Inc. stock price (BERY)
The Berry Global Group, Inc. Stock (NYSE: BERY) is currently trading at $71.97 (+0.47%) with no 52-week break as ranges are between 48.65 – 72.95 (36.05%) with a capitalization market value of $9.759 billion with a market value of $9.76 billion.
Market analysts are also concerned about increased competition among peers such as Kellogg Company (K), General Mills (GIS), Campbell Soup Company (CPB).
Hexpol AB ( HXPLF)
Hexpol AB (HXPLF) is a Swedish company that produces crude oil and natural gas, primarily for its use. The company operates through four segments: refining, chemicals, biofuels, and lubricants. Hexpol AB offers products such as gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, jet fuel, petrochemical feedstock, and petroleum coke; polyurethane intermediates; methanol; hydrocarbon solvents; specialty hydrocarbons; petrochemical products; bitumen-based pavements; asphalt additives; polymer latexes for paints and coatings; glycol ethers for paints and coatings; biofuels; lubricants.
The company began trading on the Stockholm Stock Exchange in 1872 under Hahn & Co. In 1922 they moved to Hexpol AB and became a public company.
For those who want to know more about this stock before investing in it, here are some things you should know:
* Hexpol is currently paying a dividend of $0.03 per share each quarter, which equates to an annual yield of $0.48 per share
* The company has been profitable since 2010
* Current P/E ratio is 8x earnings.
A good reason to invest in HEXPOL AB
Despite the current slump in its stock price, it offers several reasons why it’s a good investment.
Firstly, and most importantly, HEXPOL AB (HXPLF) has an established business model that ensures long-term success for the company. Secondly, HEXPOL AB (HXPLF) is one of the few companies in its field to offer high dividends to investors with a strong record of paying them off.
Finally, according to our research, HEXPOL AB (HXPLF) is in a position of strength regarding market share growth. These are three good reasons you should invest in this company despite the current slump in its stock price.
HEXPOL AB stock price (HXPLF)
The latest price for Hexplo AB (HXPLF) is $11.60 per stock, in the 52-week range of 10.00 – 13.98(+15.98%), with a market capitalization of 4.44 billion dollars. The company had a 7% operating margin and reported revenue of $2.3 billion in its last fiscal year.
Conclusion
Many businesses required workers to wear masks at work and use plastic shields when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Because of this, plexiglass stocks have been an excellent investment in 2020 and 2021. Plexiglass has been a critical factor in reducing Coronavirus spread, and early stock investors with optimistic long-term visions about plexiglass have been awarded.
Industry experts predict that acrylic barriers are here to stay and that demand for plexiglass will not diminish any time soon. And yet, according to analysts, companies like Exxon Mobil Corporation, LyondellBasell Industries, Dow Inc., Berry Global Group, which participate in plexiglass production, still have the best stock to buy right now.