A Comparison ACM panels are generally made up of light gauge aluminum skins laminated to both sides of a plastic core. The material used for the core of the panel is either thermoset phenolic resin or thermal plastic. Thermoset remains rigid throught normal application heating and cooling periods. Flammability resistance of phenolic thermoset is inherent. In a fire, they burn and char. .
Thermal plastic goes through flexing cycles when the temperature fluctuates.
Enhanced flammability from additives. In a fire, they tend to melt and drip flaming droplets. In conclusion, thermoset plastics are significantly more stable in heat related performance characteristics versus the thermoplastic systems. Since building panels are subjected to high and variable heat loads at all times of the year, the thermoset ACM panels' cores are better suited for this type of architectural panel.