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## Plastics and Synthetics 

The term “plastic” used here is a generic term for synthetic materials. The use of these materials is primarily for stiffeners in containers. They replace the metal stiffeners used in military systems. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) was the first material used followed by Lexan $^{®}$. Time has 

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proven that moly disulfide (MDS) filled nylon is superior to the other materials and has become the most commonly used stiffener material. Today, the use of Lexan$^{®}$ is primarily in clear windows in pin protector flaps. Stiffeners should have rounded edges to prevent wear points and to minimize the ability of lines to half hitch around them. [Figures 3-80 through  3-84] 

