What Is The Difference Between Plexiglass And Acrylic Sheets?

What is the difference between plexiglass and acrylic sheets?

If you are in the market for clear plastic sheets, you may have come across two popular options: plexiglass and acrylic sheets. While they may seem interchangeable, there are actually some key differences between these two materials. Let''s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between plexiglass and acrylic sheets.

What are plexiglass and acrylic sheets?

Before we dive into the differences, it''s important to understand what plexiglass and acrylic sheets are.

Plexiglass, also known as acrylic glass, is a type of thermoplastic made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It was first introduced in the 1930s as a shatter-resistant alternative to glass. Plexiglass is highly durable, lightweight, and resistant to impact and weather. It comes in a variety of colors and can be easily shaped, making it a popular material for a range of applications, including aircraft windows, skylights, and protective barriers.

Acrylic sheets, on the other hand, are a type of plastic made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Like plexiglass, acrylic sheets are lightweight, durable, and shatter-resistant. They are also weather-resistant and can withstand UV rays without yellowing or fading. Acrylic sheets come in a variety of colors and finishes, making them a popular choice for signs, displays, and lighting fixtures.

How are they made?

While plexiglass and acrylic sheets are made from the same material, there are some differences in the manufacturing process.

Plexiglass is made through a process called extrusion. In this process, the PMMA resin is melted and extruded through a die, which shapes the plastic into a sheet. The sheet is then cooled and cut to size.

Acrylic sheets, on the other hand, are made through a process called cell casting. In this process, the PMMA resin is mixed with a liquid and poured into a mold. The mold is then heated, allowing the resin to cure and form a solid sheet. The sheet is then removed from the mold and trimmed to size.

Durability

Both plexiglass and acrylic sheets are highly durable and resistant to impact and weather. However, there are some differences in their durability that are worth noting.

Plexiglass is known for being more resistant to scratches than acrylic sheets. It is also more resistant to UV radiation, which means it is less likely to yellow or fade over time. Plexiglass is also more resistant to chemicals, making it a great choice for applications that require chemical resistance.

Acrylic sheets, on the other hand, are more impact-resistant than plexiglass. They are less likely to crack or shatter upon impact, making them a safer choice for some applications. Acrylic sheets are also more flexible than plexiglass, which can make them easier to work with in some applications.

Clarity

Both plexiglass and acrylic sheets are known for their clarity, but there are some differences in how they transmit light.

Plexiglass is known for having a slightly higher level of light transmission than acrylic sheets. This means that more light passes through a piece of plexiglass than through a piece of acrylic sheet. Plexiglass is also known for having a higher level of clarity, which means that the material is more optically transparent and less prone to distortion.

Acrylic sheets, on the other hand, are known for having a slightly lower level of light transmission than plexiglass. This can make them a better choice for applications where a degree of light diffusion is desirable. Acrylic sheets are also more prone to distortion than plexiglass, which means that they can produce a slight distortion in images and objects seen through the material.

Cost

The cost of plexiglass and acrylic sheets can vary depending on a number of factors, including thickness, color, and size. However, in general, plexiglass tends to be slightly more expensive than acrylic sheets.

Because of its higher resistance to scratches and UV radiation, plexiglass is often used in applications where durability is a key concern, such as in aircraft windows and outdoor signs. This can make it a more expensive option than acrylic sheets, which are often used in displays, lighting fixtures, and other applications where impact resistance is a key concern.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while plexiglass and acrylic sheets are made from the same material, there are some key differences between these two materials. Plexiglass is more scratch-resistant, UV-resistant, and chemically resistant than acrylic sheets, but it is also more expensive. Acrylic sheets, on the other hand, are more flexible, impact-resistant, and may transmit light better than plexiglass, but they are more prone to scratching and distortion.

Ultimately, the choice between plexiglass and acrylic sheets will depend on your specific needs and application. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, so it''s important to consider all of the factors when making your decision.