Is Acrylic Sheet The Same As Perspex?

Introduction

Acrylic sheet and Perspex are two popular types of materials used in many applications. Although they may seem the same, there are key differences between them that you need to be aware of before you start your project. This article dives deeper into both materials and highlights what makes them distinct and unique.

**What is Acrylic Sheet?

Acrylic sheets are a type of thermoplastic that is created from a polymer of methyl methacrylate. The sheets can be transparent or have various colors with a glossy or matte finish. They are known for their high durability, excellent strength, and resistance to impact.

Acrylic sheets are commonly used in many applications due to their versatility and ease of processing. They can be bent, molded, and shaped into various forms. Some of the common uses of acrylic sheets include:

1. Signage: Acrylic sheets can be used for signs, both for indoor and outdoor use. They are easy to print on and have excellent visibility.

2. Architecture and Interior Design: Acrylic sheets are a great alternative to glass for doors, partitions, and windows. They provide excellent visibility, and their transparency enhances the overall look of the building.

3. Automotive Industry: Acrylic sheets are used in the automotive industry to make headlights and taillights. They are also used as covers for gauges and displays.

4. Aquariums: Acrylic sheets are also used to make aquariums and fish tanks. They have excellent clarity and are more durable than glass.

5. Lighting: Acrylic sheets are commonly used to make light fixtures. They are easy to shape, and their transparency allows for the transmission of light.

**What is Perspex?

Perspex is a brand of acrylic sheet that is owned by the Lucite International Company. Like acrylic sheets, Perspex is made from a polymer of methyl methacrylate. Perspex was first invented in 1933 by Otto Rohm. Perspex is known for its clarity, weather resistance, and excellent light transmission properties.

Perspex is a popular material because of its high-quality finishes and versatility. It is used in many industries, including:

1. Architecture and Design: Perspex can be used in architecture and interior design applications such as shower screens, greenhouse glazing, and skylights.

2. Displays: Perspex can be used to create highly-durable displays. It has a high optical clarity that offers a better image display than other kinds of plastics.

3. Lighting: Perspex can work as a diffuser for lighting fixtures, as it has an excellent ability to scatter light. It is also used in light boxes as a way to brighten up designs.

4. Signage and Lettering: Perspex is used as signage as it is easy to work with and can be cut into any shape or size required.

**Difference Between Acrylic Sheet and Perspex

-Brand Name:

The most noticeable difference between Perspex and acrylic sheet is that the former is a brand name while the latter is a generic name.

-Clarity and Transparency:

Both materials are clear and transparent, but Perspex has a better optical clarity than acrylic sheet. Perspex allows up to 92% of light to transmit, while acrylic sheet only allows 90% of light transmission.

-Depth of Color:

Perspex typically has deeper and more vivid colors than acrylic sheets. Perspex is available in a wide range of colors, finishes and thicknesses. However, its color range is relatively limited compared to acrylic sheets, which often utilize custom colors.

-Weather Resistance:

Perspex is known to be more weather-resistant than acrylic sheets. It is less likely to yellow or become brittle over time.

-Brand Recognition:

Perspex often has better brand recognition than acrylic sheet, and is often used for its quality reputation.

**Conclusion

Acrylic sheets and Perspex offer high-quality, durable materials that can be used in many applications. Both materials have similar properties but have some significant differences that set them apart. Perspex is a brand of acrylic sheet that is known for its clarity, weather resistance, and excellent light transmission properties. While acrylic sheets are a generic name, they offer a wider range of custom colors and are used in various industries, including architecture, automotive, signs, and more. Understanding the differences between acrylic sheets and Perspex is necessary to determine which material best suits your needs.